Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, look no further than this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta. This dish combines tender salmon fillets with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. It’s an excellent way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is not just any pasta dish; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors that elevates a simple meal into something extraordinary. The combination of the buttery garlic sauce with the richness of the salmon makes this dish incredibly satisfying. Moreover, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a small gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredient Checklist
To create this delectable Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 ounces uncooked pasta (linguine or fettuccine works great)
- 1/2 pound fresh salmon, skinless and boneless
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A skillet or frying pan for the salmon and sauce
- A slotted spoon or tongs for pasta
- A cutting board and knife for chopping
- A measuring cup for broth and lemon juice
- A spatula for stirring
Cook Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta Like This
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Flake the Salmon
Carefully flake the cooked salmon into large pieces and gently fold it into the pasta. Be careful not to break it up too much; you want to maintain those beautiful chunks of salmon.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative or simply want to modify the dish, consider these swaps:
- Replace the salmon with grilled or sautéed mushrooms, like portobello or shiitake, for a hearty option.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely plant-based meal.
- Swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil for a lighter touch.
- Consider using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Learn from These Mistakes
Cooking should be enjoyable, but sometimes things can go awry. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid when making Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta:
- Overcooking the salmon can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Adding too much flour to the salmon can create a gummy texture. A light dusting is all you need.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water can hinder the creaminess of the sauce. Always set some aside before draining!
- Rushing through the garlic sautéing step may result in burnt garlic, which can turn bitter. Sauté on low and watch closely.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help revive the sauce.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the salmon may degrade upon thawing.
Common Qs About Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta type.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free pasta option and ensure the broth is gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta dish?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would be wonderful additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor.
Weekend Projects
If you’re inspired to do more in the kitchen, consider these delightful projects:
- Homemade Pasta Recipe – Elevate your pasta experience by making it from scratch.
- Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta – A fantastic vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying.
- Vegan Pasta Primavera – Brighten up your dinner with a colorful array of vegetables.
- Creamy Butter Garlic Sauce – Perfect for enhancing any pasta dish!
Final Bite
Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is a dish that brings comfort and sophistication together on one plate. With its rich flavors and quick prep time, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant dinner party. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it accessible to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So go ahead and treat yourself to this delightful meal—you deserve it!
Cooking is all about experimenting and finding joy in each dish you create. With Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating an experience. Enjoy every bite, and share it with those you love. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Carefully flake the cooked salmon into large pieces and gently fold it into the pasta. Be careful not to break it up too much; you want to maintain those beautiful chunks of salmon.
- Serve your Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help revive the sauce.
- Consider using gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
