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Homemade Cajun Salmon Pasta photo

Cajun Salmon Pasta

This Cajun Salmon Pasta is a flavor explosion! Creamy, zesty, and quick to prepare, it's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 1/2 pound fresh salmon a nice fillet
  • Flour for dredging
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Fresh basil torn to taste (optional)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese to taste (optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, take your fresh salmon and pat it dry with a paper towel. Dredge it lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon fillets, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the skin to crisp up. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Dijon mustard, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add the Cajun seasoning, fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Flake the cooked salmon into large pieces and gently fold it into the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with torn fresh basil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon.
  • Make sure not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but still be moist.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.