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Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe - Easy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

This creamy salmon pasta is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and comforting. Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pot wonder combines tender salmon flakes with a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
  • 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and flake into large chunks.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with flaked salmon, lemon zest, dill, and peas if using. Toss gently to combine, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Don't overcook the salmon - it should be just cooked through and still moist. If sauce becomes too thick, gradually add pasta water until it reaches perfect coating consistency.