Salmon Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, this creamy garlic salmon pasta combines tender salmon, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxurious garlic sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta
• 1/2 pound fresh salmon (see note below)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream
• Juice from 1/2 medium lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the salmon with onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Lower the heat to medium. Add the flour to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until it forms a smooth paste.
5. Add the minced garlic and white wine (or chicken broth) to the skillet. Let it bubble for about 20 seconds.
6. Whisk in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
8. Add the cooked salmon back to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Gently mix it into the sauce and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the salmon is fully cooked.
9. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, along with 1 tablespoon of reserved pasta water (add more if needed to adjust the sauce consistency). Sprinkle in the chopped parsley and gently mix everything together.
10. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet Elegant: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Rich and Creamy: The garlic-infused cream sauce pairs beautifully with tender salmon and pasta.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite pasta or added vegetables.

Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when tossed in the sauce.
• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon provides the best flavor and texture. However, frozen salmon can be used if properly thawed.
• Avoid Overcooking the Salmon: Cook it just until opaque for the best results.
• Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace salmon with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different protein option.
• Herb Substitution: Substitute parsley with basil, dill, or chives for a flavor twist.
• Non-Alcoholic: Use chicken broth instead of white wine.
• Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon in advance. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are great choices, but penne or rigatoni can also work well.

Can I use smoked salmon?
Yes! Smoked salmon will add a different flavor profile but works wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors perfectly.

Enjoy this creamy, flavorful salmon pasta that’s sure to impress family and friends!