The Ultimate Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe That Everyone Loves

Swimming in flavor, this creamy salmon pasta captures the essence of comfort dining with a gourmet twist.

Mediterranean herbs dance alongside tender salmon pieces, creating a symphony of rich textures.

Delicate fettuccine serves as the perfect canvas for the luxurious sauce.

Weeknight dinners transform into elegant experiences when you combine these simple ingredients.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in elevating this classic dish.

Unexpected notes of lemon and dill brighten every single bite.

Prepare to savor a meal that feels both indulgent and surprisingly effortless.

What Makes Creamy Salmon Pasta So Tasty

• Minimal Prep Magic: Craft this protein-packed dish with just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, perfect for busy home cooks wanting a quick nutritious meal.
• Keto-Friendly Delight: Designed specifically for low-carb diets, this egg salad provides a satisfying option that keeps you on track with your health goals without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Serving Style: Enjoy as a lettuce wrap, spread on low-carb bread, or straight from the bowl, making it an adaptable recipe for lunch, snack, or light dinner.
• Nutrient-Rich Powerhouse: Packed with high-quality protein from eggs and healthy fats from mayonnaise, this recipe delivers a nutritious punch that supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full.

Ingredients for Creamy Salmon Pasta

• Salmon: A rich, flaky fish that provides a luxurious and tender texture to the pasta dish.

• Pasta: The foundational element that absorbs the creamy sauce and creates a satisfying meal.

• Heavy Cream: Delivers a smooth, rich base that gives the sauce its velvety consistency.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty depth and helps thicken the sauce.

• Garlic, Onion: Provide a fragrant and savory foundation that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out the dish's natural flavors.
• Dill: Introduces a fresh, slightly tangy herb note that complements the salmon.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the cream.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity undertone.
• Parsley: Offers a fresh, green garnish that provides visual appeal and a light herbal note.

How to Make Creamy Salmon Pasta Easily

Step 1: Boil Water and Cook Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Drop pasta into the water and cook until it reaches al dente texture.

Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sizzle Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add finely chopped garlic and diced onions, stirring constantly until they become translucent and release their fragrant aroma, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet and let it simmer gently.

Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Season and Enhance Flavor

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chopped fresh dill

Stir the seasonings into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Salmon and Warm Through

Gently fold flaked salmon into the creamy sauce, allowing it to warm up without breaking apart. Let the fish heat through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly, ensuring every strand is beautifully coated with the creamy salmon sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the pasta.

Serve immediately while the dish is hot and the sauce is creamy.

Helpful Notes for Creamy Salmon Pasta

• Opt for fresh salmon to ensure the most delicate and rich flavor in your pasta dish.
• Gently flake salmon with a fork to maintain its tender texture and prevent breaking into tiny pieces.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining, as its starchy consistency helps create a smoother, silkier sauce.
• Control the sauce thickness by gradually adding pasta water, achieving the perfect creamy consistency without overwhelming the delicate salmon.
• Choose wild-caught salmon for a more robust taste and higher nutritional value, enhancing the overall quality of your meal.

Flavor Twists for Creamy Salmon Pasta Dish

• Mediterranean Medley: Replace salmon with grilled shrimp and add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Smoky Salmon Edition: Use smoked salmon instead of fresh, incorporate capers, and sprinkle with smoked paprika for an intense flavor profile.
• Herbal Green Version: Swap dill for fresh basil and spinach, adding a vibrant green color and earthy undertones to the creamy pasta.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Include red pepper flakes, jalapeños, and a splash of hot sauce to create a zesty, heat-packed salmon pasta experience.

Best Ways to Present Creamy Salmon Pasta

• Cozy Family Dinner Night: Serve the creamy salmon pasta as a comforting main dish for a relaxed family meal. Pair with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to complete the dining experience.
• Mediterranean-Style Lunch: Present the pasta on a beautiful platter with extra lemon wedges and fresh dill sprigs. Accompany with a light white wine and crusty artisan bread for an elegant midday feast.
• Quick Weeknight Entertaining: Prepare the dish in advance and reheat gently before guests arrive. Plate individually with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh herbs for a sophisticated yet effortless meal that looks professionally prepared.

How to Store Creamy Salmon Pasta Properly

• Store leftover salmon pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce's creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon tough and dry out the sauce.
• While not ideal, you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month. Separate the salmon and sauce from the pasta before freezing to prevent texture breakdown. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly.
• If storing, keep the parsley garnish separate and add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like cod, halibut, or trout that have a similar texture and mild flavor.

• Is it okay to use dried dill instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Use about 1/3 of the amount of dried dill compared to fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Try using whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and adding more vegetables like spinach or asparagus to boost nutrition.

• What if I'm lactose intolerant?

Replace heavy cream with lactose-free cream or use unsweetened almond milk mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Homemade creamy salmon pasta delivers rich Mediterranean flavors straight from Italian kitchens. Seafood lovers will appreciate this quick weeknight dinner packed with omega-3 and delightful textures you can savor in less than 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked (fresh or canned)
• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill
• 1/4 cup pasta water (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, sautéing minced garlic and diced onions until translucent and aromatic, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, allowing it to gently simmer and slightly thicken, then incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, bright lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
4. Enhance the sauce with delicate seasonings, including salt, cracked black pepper, and fragrant dill. Adjust consistency by adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Carefully break salmon into tender flakes and introduce them into the creamy sauce, allowing the fish to warm through without overcooking.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the luxurious salmon sauce, using tongs to ensure each strand is evenly and generously coated.
7. Finish the dish by scattering finely chopped fresh parsley across the top, creating a vibrant garnish that adds both color and a burst of herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately while the pasta remains steaming and sauce is at its peak creaminess.

Notes

• Choose wild-caught salmon for richer flavor and better nutrition compared to farm-raised varieties.
• Reserve pasta water before draining to help create a silkier, more emulsified sauce that clings perfectly to noodles.
• Gently fold salmon into sauce to prevent breaking delicate fish pieces, maintaining beautiful flaky texture.
• Can easily swap cream for lighter options like Greek yogurt or half-and-half for reduced-calorie version without sacrificing creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 630 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg