Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta: A Decadent Seafood Delight

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home, Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines rich, flaky salmon with a velvety garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta for a meal that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Rich & Creamy – The combination of butter, garlic, and cream creates an irresistibly smooth sauce.
• Packed with Omega-3s – Salmon is a great source of healthy fats and protein.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Versatile – Customize it with your favorite pasta, herbs, and spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper, then place it skin-side down in the pan.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
5. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
3. Gently fold in the flaked salmon.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta!

FAQs

1. Can I Use Frozen Salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a crispy sear.

2. What Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are ideal, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

3. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

4. How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

5. Can I Add Vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is a perfect balance of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!