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Easy Salmon Pasta Recipe

Easy Salmon Pasta Recipe

Creamy lemon-garlic salmon pasta that comes together fast for a cozy weeknight dinner. Bright, rich, and satisfying.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz dry pasta, like penne or spaghetti use your favorite shape
  • 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed pat dry
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional heat
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more for pasta water
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 cup baby spinach loosely packed
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water and drain.
  • Season salmon with 1/4 tsp salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and sear 3–4 minutes per side.
  • Transfer salmon to a plate and flake into large chunks. Reduce heat to medium.
  • Melt butter in the same pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Pour in heavy cream and a splash of the pasta water. Simmer gently until slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes.
  • Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth and glossy.
  • Add spinach to the sauce and wilt. Toss in drained pasta and most of the parsley, loosening with more pasta water as needed.
  • Gently fold in flaked salmon. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with remaining parsley.

Notes

Variation: Stir in 1 cup thawed peas or sautéed mushrooms with the spinach. For a lighter sauce, swap half the cream for half-and-half. Leftovers keep 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of water.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Salmon Pasta Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.