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Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

Pan-seared salmon meets creamy, garlicky pasta in this easy salmon pasta recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. With its crispy skin and tender, flaky fish served atop a luscious bed of pasta, this dish is both satisfying and visually stunning. You’ll impress anyone at your table with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a go-to for busy evenings. The combination of rich cream and garlic with perfectly seared salmon creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s an elegant option that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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  • Quick and easy preparation
  • Rich, creamy sauce with garlic flavor
  • Perfectly cooked salmon
  • Elegant enough for entertaining
  • Customizable for various tastes

Ingredients

  • 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Pasta

  1. Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked halfway through.
  4. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Plate the creamy pasta and top with the pan-seared salmon. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon to get that crispy skin.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the salmon in batches.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for garlic flavor.

Easy Variations

  • Swap out the salmon for shrimp or chicken for a different protein option.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
  • Use a different type of cheese like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

What to Serve With It

  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette
  • Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
  • Steamed asparagus or green beans
  • A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Garlic Pasta
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
  2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add salmon, skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes.
  4. Flip salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
  5. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until creamy. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
  8. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, then plate and top with salmon.
  9. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes: Adjust garlic and cheese amounts to suit your taste. Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread!

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