Creamy Salmon Pasta is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that combines tender salmon with a rich, velvety sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a balance of flavors with the creamy sauce, tangy lemon zest, and perfectly cooked pasta. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delightful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 160g pasta (your choice of type, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 10g butter
- 200g salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 40g dry white wine
- 150g cream
- Lemon zest, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook, following the package directions, until it reaches an al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and Reserve: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. You can reserve a small amount of pasta water (about 1/4 cup) in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon and Sauce
- Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Salmon: Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the bite-sized salmon pieces. Cook the salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s just cooked through and lightly browned. Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, using it to deglaze the pan. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and infuse the salmon with flavor.
- Add the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the cream. Stir gently to combine the cream with the wine and salmon. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Season the Sauce: Add lemon zest to taste, along with salt and pepper. The lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cream and salmon.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy salmon sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. If the sauce is too dense, stir in a bit of the saved pasta water to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon zest as desired.
Step 4: Serve the Dish
- Plate the Pasta: Divide the creamy salmon pasta among serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch of flavor and color, garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley or dill.
- Enjoy: Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread on the side.
Conclusion
Creamy Salmon Pasta is a delightful combination of tender salmon, rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The addition of lemon zest adds a refreshing note, balancing the richness of the dish. Whether you’re making this for a special dinner or a quick meal, this recipe is sure to please. Follow these steps to create a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious taste of salmon and cream in every bite!