Looking for an easy yet elegant seafood pasta recipe? This Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe is guaranteed to become your favorite. Perfectly cooked salmon combines with a light, zingy cream sauce, featuring parmesan cheese, lemon, and garlic. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special date night, this pasta is irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers. Cooking salmon may feel intimidating at first, but it’s surprisingly simple. Paired with a luscious crème fraîche sauce, the dish feels indulgent without being heavy. The addition of capers, parmesan, and fresh herbs creates layers of flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- Fresh Salmon: One fillet serves two generously. You can bake, pan-fry, or poach it—whatever suits your style.
- Crème Fraîche: This thick, tangy cream creates a rich and velvety sauce. If unavailable, substitute with heavy cream, and add a splash of white wine or extra lemon for acidity.
- Capers: These briny little gems elevate the flavor but can be omitted if not to your taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated parmesan adds depth to the sauce. Use a microplane or the fine side of a grater for the best results.
- Lemon Juice & Zest: The brightness of lemon perfectly complements the salmon and crème fraîche.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves are all you need for a subtle aromatic base.
- Fresh Herbs: Chives, dill, or parsley bring a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Fettuccine: This classic pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step-by-Step Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe
1. Prepare the Salmon
Baking salmon is foolproof with this simple method. Measure the thickest part of the fillet and cook for 5 minutes per 1.5 cm thickness at 400°F (200°C). For a 2.5 cm thick fillet, bake for about 8 minutes. If you prefer, pan-fry the salmon for a golden, crispy exterior.
Check for doneness with a fork; the salmon should flake easily. You can also use a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) is the ideal internal temperature.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining; this can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
3. Make the Sauce
- In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in the crème fraîche, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to warm through.
- Gradually sprinkle in the grated parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Combine and Serve
- Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and gently fold it into the sauce. Add the capers and chopped chives.
- Toss the cooked fettuccine into the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve immediately with extra parmesan, fresh herbs, and a wedge of lemon on the side.
Tips for Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe
- Cooking Salmon: For a golden crust, sear the salmon in a hot pan before baking.
- Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it’s a lifesaver for adjusting sauce texture.
- Herbs and Add-Ons: Feel free to experiment with fresh dill, parsley, or even a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. For a more indulgent meal, add some garlic bread on the side.
Why Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe Is the Star
Using crème fraîche instead of heavy cream is a small change with a big impact. Its slightly tangy flavor enhances the lemon and garlic while balancing the richness of the salmon and cheese. Plus, you’ll need less of it compared to regular cream, making the dish feel lighter.
Variations to Try
- Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
- Veggie Boost: Add steamed asparagus or peas for extra greens.
- Swap the Protein: Replace salmon with shrimp or chicken for a different take.
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of flavors in this dish is what makes it so special. The creaminess of the sauce is perfectly offset by the brightness of lemon and the slight tang of crème fraîche. The salmon adds richness, while the capers provide a delightful pop of saltiness. It’s an easy recipe with impressive results—perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
This creamy salmon pasta is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. From the perfectly cooked salmon to the luscious lemony sauce, it’s a dish that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or someone special, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!