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Tired of boring weeknight dinners? This incredible 20 minute lemon garlic salmon pasta is your delicious solution. Flaky salmon is tossed with tender pasta in a rich buttery garlic sauce that comes together in one pan for an easy elegant meal your family will love
The first time I made this salmon pasta was after a long day when I wanted something quick and impressive. Now any time we need a fast and satisfying dinner with minimal fuss this recipe is the one I reach for. My husband always goes back for seconds
Ingredients
- Pasta such as linguine or spaghetti: because it soaks up the sauce beautifully. Look for high quality dried pasta for the best texture
- Fresh salmon fillet: gives the dish a rich tender bite. Choose wild caught if possible and make sure it is firm and bright pink
- All purpose flour: helps create a delicate crust on the salmon that holds in moisture. Check that it is unbleached for best taste
- Salt and fresh black pepper: bring all the flavors to life. Use flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for extra pop
- Olive oil and unsalted butter: make the sauce luxurious. Use extra virgin olive oil and real butter for superior flavor
- Fresh garlic: is the backbone of the sauce. Use plump cloves and mince just before cooking for the strongest aroma
- Chicken or vegetable broth: forms the base of the sauce. Grab a low sodium variety to control saltiness
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens and balances the rich salmon. Use freshly squeezed juice for zestier flavor
- Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese: add color heat and a savory finishing touch. Opt for real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about a quarter cup of the pasta water and then drain the noodles
- Prepare the Salmon:
- While the pasta cooks pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and black pepper. Dredge the fillet lightly in flour so there is a thin even layer all around. Gently shake off any extra flour
- Sear the Salmon:
- Set a large skillet over medium high heat. Pour in the olive oil and add the butter. Once the mixture is melted and shimmering add the salmon. Sear it for two to three minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Lift the salmon from the pan and set aside
- Build the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about thirty seconds until it turns fragrant without browning. Pour in the broth and lemon juice gently scraping any browned bits from the pan into the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for one to two minutes
- Flake the Salmon:
- Return the seared salmon to the skillet with the sauce. Use a spoon to break it gently into bite sized flakes. Let these cook in the simmering sauce for another minute so the fish finishes cooking through
- Finish and Serve:
- Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly so the pasta is coated in the garlicky sauce. Splash in some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and finish with parsley red pepper flakes and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
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One of my favorite things about this dish is the way a squeeze of fresh lemon wakes up every flavor on the plate. My family always comments on how the salmon stays flaky in this sauce and it never lasts long at the table. It is the kind of meal we have cooked together many times after a busy weekday with music playing in the kitchen
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best results reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop with a spoonful of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The delicate salmon may fall apart but the flavor remains just as delicious
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh salmon frozen and thawed fillets work in a pinch. You can swap linguine for any long pasta shape or use gluten free noodles if needed. Chicken broth can be replaced with vegetable broth for a pescatarian version. Add spinach cherry tomatoes or capers to mix things up
Serving Suggestions
Pair this vibrant pasta with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. For a special touch serve with a glass of chilled white wine. It is lovely as a light meal in summer or as a cozy main in colder months
Cultural and Historical Context
Lemon and garlic are classic flavors in Mediterranean cuisine especially with fish. Simple pastas like this one often appear on Italian dinner tables relying on quality ingredients and a few staple pantry items. Recipes like this celebrate quick fresh homemade meals that feel both nourishing and special without any fuss
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the salmon from overcooking?
Sear the salmon just until golden, then finish cooking briefly in the sauce to keep it moist and flaky.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Linguine or spaghetti hold the sauce nicely but penne or fettuccine are great alternatives for this dish.
- → Can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer texture and flavor.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
- → Are there healthier variations?
Stir in fresh spinach or use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition without sacrificing taste.