Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta
This Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta is a bright, fresh, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Light yet hearty, it combines tender salmon fillets with al dente bowtie pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all tossed in a zesty lemon-dill sauce that sings with every bite. The garlic and lemon juice elevate the flavors beautifully, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds that final touch of indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease. It’s a one-pan wonder that will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
When it comes to making a delightful pasta dish featuring salmon, the balance of flavors and textures is key. This Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta recipe is reliable because it uses simple, fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The salmon cooks gently in olive oil and lemon juice, keeping it moist and flavorful. The bowtie pasta holds the sauce wonderfully, while the fresh dill and lemon zest brighten the entire dish. You won’t need any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Plus, the timing is spot-on so everything finishes cooking simultaneously, ensuring nothing gets overdone or undercooked.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: Also known as farfalle, this pasta shape is perfect for holding the sauce and mixing well with the salmon and veggies.
- 4 salmon fillets: Fresh, skinless fillets add protein and a rich, buttery texture to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the salmon and sauté garlic, providing a subtle fruity base flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that balances the richness of the salmon and pasta.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides an extra layer of citrus aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Dill’s slightly sweet, herbaceous notes complement the lemon and salmon beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for bringing all the components together.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy bursts of flavor that add color and freshness.
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach: Provides a mild, leafy green element for nutrition and texture.
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish to each bite.
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large pot: For boiling the bowtie pasta perfectly al dente.
- Non-stick skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for cooking salmon fillets evenly and sautéing garlic and veggies.
- Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
- Microplane or fine grater: For zesting the lemon.
- Sharp knife: To chop dill, mince garlic, and halve cherry tomatoes.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the pasta and sauce without scratching cookware.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To get the seasoning and liquids just right.
Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta, Made Easy
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Build the Lemon Dill Sauce
Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Spinach, and Salmon
Add the cooked bowtie pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta is well coated in the lemon dill sauce. Break the salmon fillets into large flakes and fold them into the pasta carefully, keeping the salmon intact as much as possible.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Divide the Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta onto plates. Optionally, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy immediately while warm and fragrant.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- Cherry tomatoes: Swap for sun-dried tomatoes in winter for a concentrated burst of flavor.
- Fresh dill: Substitute with fresh parsley or tarragon if dill isn’t available.
- Spinach: Use baby kale or arugula for a peppery twist.
- Lemon juice: Lime juice can be used for a slightly different citrus note.
Author’s Commentary
This Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta is one of my favorite quick dinners that still feels special and full of fresh flavors. The key is not to overcook the salmon—keeping it moist and tender is essential to the dish’s success. I love how the lemon and dill brighten the rich salmon without overpowering it. Plus, using bowtie pasta adds a fun texture that holds onto the sauce perfectly. If you’re ever craving a comforting pasta dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor, this recipe has got you covered.
For an even simpler salmon pasta option, you might want to check out my take on Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon — it’s incredibly easy and just as delicious!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until just heated through—avoid overheating to prevent drying out the salmon. You can also prepare the salmon and pasta components separately for meal prep: cook the salmon and pasta, store them chilled, then quickly toss together with fresh lemon juice, dill, and spinach when ready to eat. Adding the Parmesan cheese fresh before serving preserves its texture and flavor.
Common Qs About Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture so it sears nicely in the pan.
Is there a substitute for fresh dill if I don’t have any on hand?
Yes, fresh parsley or tarragon can be used as alternatives. They’ll offer a different but complementary herbaceous note.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The rest of the dish is naturally free of dairy.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
For a creamy twist, try stirring in a little bit of cream or a splash of your favorite Alfredo Sauce Recipe at the end of cooking. This adds richness without overpowering the fresh lemon and dill flavors.
Keep Cooking
- Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon – Another easy salmon recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Alfredo Sauce Recipe – Make your own creamy sauce to elevate any pasta dish.
- Fork & Pan’s collection of fresh pasta recipes – Discover more pasta inspiration for every occasion.
- Healthy dinner ideas – Browse a variety of wholesome meals that are quick and delicious.
Before You Go
Remember, the magic of this Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta lies in the fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Don’t rush the salmon cooking process, and be generous with the lemon and dill for that signature zing. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, this dish promises a delightful balance of flavors that’s sure to impress every time.
This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with bright, fresh flavors to create a nourishing, satisfying meal. Give it a try and let the vibrant taste of lemon and dill paired with tender salmon and bowtie pasta become one of your favorite weeknight staples!
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Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta is well coated in the lemon dill sauce. Break the salmon fillets into large flakes and fold them into the pasta carefully, keeping the salmon intact as much as possible.
- Divide the Lemon Dill Salmon Bowtie Pasta onto plates. Optionally, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy immediately while warm and fragrant.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
- Substitute fresh dill with parsley or tarragon if unavailable for a different herb flavor.
- Swap cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes in winter for a concentrated flavor.
- Omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a little cream or Alfredo sauce at the end of cooking.
