There’s something magical about combining perfectly seared salmon with a creamy, garlicky sauce and tossing it all with tender fettuccine. This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen without the need for complicated techniques or a long list of ingredients. It’s rich, indulgent, and ready in under an hour—perfect for date night, dinner with friends, or a cozy meal for yourself.
The delicate flakiness of the salmon is elevated by its golden sear, locking in both flavor and moisture. The creamy sauce is infused with the gentle bite of garlic, the tang of lemon, and just enough Parmesan to make it luxuriously cheesy without overwhelming the seafood. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds optional heat for those who enjoy a little kick.
This recipe pairs well with a crisp green salad or a glass of dry white wine. While it looks elegant and refined on the plate, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting to explore the kitchen, this creamy salmon pasta is sure to impress both your taste buds and your dinner guests.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets, cut into chunks
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Servings: 2
Instructions
Boil the fettuccine according to the instructions on the package. Once tender, drain and set aside. Season the salmon chunks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the salmon pieces for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until aromatic. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Return the salmon to the pan and gently mix or place on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional and Dietary Information
This dish offers a good source of healthy fats from the salmon and olive oil, along with a generous amount of protein. The heavy cream and cheese contribute to the richness and flavor, but also increase the saturated fat content. It’s best enjoyed occasionally if you’re watching cholesterol or calorie intake. Not suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets but can be adapted with alternatives.
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