Introduction
Creamy Butter Salmon Pasta is a luxurious yet easy dish that brings together tender salmon, silky butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s comforting enough for a cozy dinner and elegant enough for entertaining.
Origin
This dish draws inspiration from European cream-based pasta traditions, particularly Italian and French cuisines, where butter, cream, and seafood are used to create rich yet balanced meals.
Cultural Significance
Creamy pasta dishes are staples of home cooking around the world. Adding salmon elevates the dish, reflecting modern comfort food that blends nutrition with indulgence.
Ingredients and Quantities (Serves 4)
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Spinach or kale
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes
- Mushrooms
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook Salmon: Keeps it flaky and tender.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Helps loosen sauce if needed.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Melts smoothly.
- Finish with Lemon: Brightens the richness.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Cook Salmon:
- Season salmon with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in skillet; sear salmon 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove and flake into chunks.
- Make Sauce:
- In same skillet, melt butter.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in cream and Italian seasoning; simmer gently.
- Combine:
- Add Parmesan, lemon juice, and pasta.
- Fold in salmon and a splash of pasta water if needed.
- Serve:
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Description
This pasta is creamy and buttery with delicate salmon in every bite. The sauce coats the noodles beautifully, while lemon adds just enough brightness to balance the richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated fat: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Omega-3s: high
Conclusion
Creamy Butter Salmon Pasta is comfort food at its finest—simple to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Recommendation
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus. Serve with sparkling water or a light white wine.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Balance this rich dish by using whole-grain pasta, adding greens, and savoring moderate portions—proof that indulgence can still be nourishing.