Easy Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe (2024)

Why This Is The Best Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With a total time of just 25 minutes, you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-follow instructions, even a beginner cook can master this creamy salmon pasta.
• Unforgettable: The combination of tender salmon, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a flavor that's truly unforgettable.
• Family Favorite: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.
• Comfort Food: With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.

Key Ingredients

Here's an overview of some key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and measurements, please scroll to the recipe card below.

• Salmon: The star of the dish, salmon brings a rich, hearty flavor and is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Butter: This ingredient adds a creamy, rich texture to the dish and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• Flour: This will be used to thicken the sauce, giving it a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Half and Half: This gives the sauce a creamy, velvety texture. If you don't have half and half, you can substitute it with equal parts of milk and cream.
• Capers: These add a tangy, briny flavor that compliments the rich, fatty salmon.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a smoky, sweet flavor and a beautiful color to the dish.
• Dry Fettucini: This pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can substitute it with any other pasta you prefer.

Tips For Making the Best Creamy Salmon Pasta

• Choose the right salmon: For this creamy salmon pasta recipe, it's best to use fresh salmon fillets. Make sure the skin is removed and the salmon is cubed before cooking. This guarantees even cooking and makes it easier to incorporate into the pasta.
• Use the right pasta: While this recipe calls for fettucini, you can substitute it with other pasta like spaghetti or linguini. The key is to cook it until it's al dente, which means it's cooked but still has a bit of a bite to it.
• Don't discard the pasta water: After boiling your pasta, don't forget to reserve some of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if needed, and it helps in binding the sauce to the pasta.
• Master the sauce: The sauce is a crucial part of this dish. Start by melting butter and adding flour to create a roux. Then add white wine and let it simmer until it's reduced by half. This process enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• Finish with fresh herbs: Don't forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top of your creamy salmon pasta. This not only adds a pop of color but also gives a fresh flavor that compliments the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy salmon pasta recipe is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of vegetable sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• For a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, try serving it with a Vegan Cauliflower and Cucumber Salad. The crisp vegetables and tangy dressing will balance out the creaminess of the pasta.
• If you're looking for a cheesy side dish, consider Baked Zucchini with Tomatoes and Mozzarella. The melted mozzarella and juicy tomatoes complement the flavors of the salmon pasta beautifully.
• Roasted Green Beans and Cherry Tomatoes would also make a great side dish. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, which pairs well with the savory salmon pasta.For a quick and easy side, try 15-minute Sautéed Green Beans. Their crisp texture and fresh flavor make them a perfect match for this creamy pasta dish.

Recipe Variation Ideas

• Lemon and Dill: If you love the refreshing tang of lemons and the unique flavor of dill, this variation is for you. Simply add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill to the sauce. The lemon zest will add a bright, citrusy flavor, while the dill will give the dish a unique, herby twist.
• Garlic Parmesan: For garlic and cheese lovers, this variation is a must-try. Add an extra two cloves of minced garlic to the butter and sprinkle a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese on top before serving. The additional garlic will enhance the savory flavor of the dish, while the parmesan cheese will add a creamy, salty twist.
• Gluten-Free: If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy this creamy salmon pasta. Simply replace the regular pasta with a gluten-free variety. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without worrying about gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: After enjoying this creamy salmon pasta recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll stay fresh for up to three days.
• Reheat Instructions: When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
• Freeze: Unfortunately, this dish doesn't freeze well due to the heavy cream in the sauce. Freezing can cause the sauce to separate and lose its creamy texture.