This Salmon Pasta dish is a glorious marriage of flavors and textures, combining the rich, buttery taste of salmon with the hearty goodness of whole wheat penne. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re a salmon aficionado or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to please your palate!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Salmon Pasta recipe stands out for its simplicity and reliability. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that feels gourmet. The cream and Parmesan sauce beautifully complement the salmon’s richness, while the peas add a pop of color and sweetness. Plus, it’s a quick one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for those hectic nights. Trust me; this dish will soon become a staple in your dinner rotation.
The Ingredient Lineup
For this delectable Salmon Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat penne pasta: A healthier alternative to traditional pasta that adds fiber.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for the aromatic base.
- 12 ounces salmon, skin removed and cut into 2-inch strips: The star of the dish, providing protein and healthy fats.
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed: For a burst of sweetness and color.
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness in the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: For creaminess.
- 1/2 cup cream: To elevate the dish to a luxurious level.
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and a cheesy finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for flavor.
- More Parmesan, for serving: Because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Recommended Tools
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the following tools:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To sauté the salmon and create the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
Make Salmon Pasta: A Simple Method
This Salmon Pasta is straightforward to prepare. Follow these steps for a successful dish.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until fragrant and translucent, ensuring you don’t burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Add the salmon strips to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet alongside the thawed peas and cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the Salmon Pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Dietary Customizations
This Salmon Pasta recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit various dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream and milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat penne.
- Vegetarian: Replace salmon with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach or broccoli for more nutrients and color.
Testing Timeline
To ensure your Salmon Pasta comes out perfectly every time, consider the following timeline:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Store, Freeze & Reheat
For those who like to meal prep, here’s how to handle leftovers:
Store any leftover Salmon Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Quick Q&A
Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Canned salmon can be a great time-saver. Just drain it well and add it to the sauce towards the end of cooking to warm through.
Can I add more vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with Salmon Pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. You might also enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Cooked pasta can be refrigerated, and the sauce can be made a day in advance.
Once you’ve mastered this , try your hand at these delicious recipes:
Ready to Cook?
Gather your ingredients and tools, and get ready to whip up a comforting and flavorful dish that will impress your family or guests. This Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Salmon Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until fragrant and translucent, ensuring you don’t burn the garlic.
- Add the salmon strips to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked salmon to the skillet alongside the thawed peas and cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the Salmon Pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
