Salmon Alfredo Pasta: A Creamy Delight for Seafood Lovers

Salmon Alfredo Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce and tender, flaky salmon, creating a meal that is both indulgent and satisfying. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about its origins; Alfredo sauce, which hails from Italy, has been a beloved staple in many households, while salmon has long been celebrated in various cuisines for its health benefits and delicious taste. This dish perfectly marries these two elements, making it a favorite among seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

What I adore about Salmon Alfredo Pasta is not just its exquisite taste and creamy texture, but also its convenience. It’s a dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of the savory salmon and the luscious Alfredo sauce creates a symphony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this Salmon Alfredo Pasta is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound salmon fillet, skinless
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water; this will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Fettuccine**: Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta in a colander. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Salmon

4. **Season the Salmon**: While the pasta is cooking, take your salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. 5. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up for about a minute until it shimmers. 6. **Cook the Salmon**: Carefully place the salmon fillet in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing it to develop a nice golden crust. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to cool slightly. 7. **Flake the Salmon**: Once the salmon is cool enough to handle, use a fork to flake it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

8. **Sauté the Garlic**: In the same skillet used for the salmon, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 9. **Add the Cream**: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Allow the cream to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. 10. **Incorporate the Cheese**: Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 11. **Season the Sauce**: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another minute to meld the flavors.

Combining the Ingredients

12. **Add the Pasta**: Once the Alfredo sauce is ready, add the drained fettuccine pasta directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess. 13. **Fold in the Salmon**: Gently fold the flaked salmon into the pasta and sauce mixture, being careful not to break up the salmon too much. Allow everything to heat through for about 1-2 minutes.

Serving the Dish

14. **Plate the Pasta**: Using tongs or a large serving spoon, transfer the creamy salmon Alfredo pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. 15. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese if desired. 16. **Enjoy**: Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of your homemade Salmon Alfredo Pasta!

Tips for Success

– **Choosing Salmon**: Fresh salmon is ideal, but you can also use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. – **Pasta Variations**: While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or linguine. – **Vegetable Additions**: For added nutrition

Conclusion:

In summary, this Salmon Alfredo Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The creamy, rich Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, creating a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a gourmet meal. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or asparagus, or even swapping the salmon for shrimp or chicken for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Salmon Alfredo Pasta a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together! Happy cooking! Print