Salmon pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that blends the heartiness of Italian comfort food with the savory elegance of seafood. Popular across Europe and North America, this dish is known for its smooth, velvety texture, quick prep time, and incredible versatility.
Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a weeknight craving, salmon pasta hits the spot with its buttery sauce, tender fish, and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s loved for its balance of richness and freshness, often complemented by herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or linguine
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin removed
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small shallot, finely chopped
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
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½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley or dill
Optional Add-Ins:
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1 cup baby spinach or arugula
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¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienned)
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Substitutions:
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Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
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Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
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Swap salmon with smoked salmon or canned tuna for variety.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Boil a large pot of salted water.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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Cook the Salmon:
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Season salmon with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through.
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Remove from pan, flake into chunks, and set aside.
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Make the Sauce:
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In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed.
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Sauté shallots and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream, lemon zest, and juice. Bring to a simmer.
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Stir in Parmesan until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine Everything:
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Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently.
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Add pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
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Gently fold in flaked salmon, spinach, or other add-ins.
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Season with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).
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Serve:
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Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Don’t overcook salmon – it should be moist and flaky, not dry.
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Use fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast to the creamy sauce.
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Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the salmon for added depth.
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A microplane grater works best for lemon zest and fine Parmesan.
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Toss pasta in the sauce while it’s still hot for better absorption.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu in place of salmon.
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Low-Carb Version: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
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Fusion Twist: Stir in miso paste, wasabi, or soy sauce for an Asian-inspired version.
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Italian Flair: Top with capers or olives for Mediterranean depth.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or basil.
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Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
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Pair with a glass of chardonnay, pinot gris, or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.
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A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or lemon-pepper seasoning adds a gourmet touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 560
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Protein: 32g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 28g
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Saturated Fat: 13g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 320mg
Note: Nutritional values vary based on substitutions and exact ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it fully and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon ahead. Cook pasta fresh for best texture.
Why is my sauce too thick/thin?
Use reserved pasta water to loosen it or simmer longer to thicken. Add Parmesan gradually.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use whole milk with a bit of butter, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re a pasta lover or a seafood fan, this creamy salmon pasta is a match made in culinary heaven. It’s fast, fancy, and flexible enough for any skill level.
