Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that brings a burst of bright flavor to your table. Perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights, this recipe combines succulent salmon with linguine in a rich lemon-butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its simple yet elegant presentation and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of lemon, butter, and garlic creates a creamy sauce that elevates the salmon and pasta.
• Versatile Dish: This Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta works well for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the salmon and fresh herbs, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of lemon and parsley make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right kitchen equipment will make preparing Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the salmon evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for creating the creamy sauce while keeping all ingredients together.
• Whisk: Ensures that the sauce ingredients are thoroughly combined for a smooth texture.

Ingredients

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta from Delish.com is bright, flavorful, and delightfully creamy.

For the Salmon

• 1 (2-lb) salmon fillet
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil

For the Pasta

• 1 lb. linguine

For the Sauce

• 4 tbsp. melted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 c. heavy cream
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

How to Make Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Season the salmon fillet with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Place half of the lemon rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Position the salmon fillet on top of these lemons, then arrange the remaining lemon slices over it. Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Bake in the preheated oven until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, approximately 25 minutes. Once cooked, break up the salmon into large chunks using a fork.

Step 4: Cook the Linguine

While the salmon bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice and zest, along with ¼ cup reserved pasta water; whisk until combined. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Turn off heat and add cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss well to coat in sauce. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Gently fold in baked salmon chunks and chopped parsley before serving topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta!

How to Serve Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Serving it creatively can enhance the overall dining experience and please your guests. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing complements the pasta nicely.

With Garlic Bread

• Toasted Baguette: Serve slices of toasted baguette brushed with garlic butter for a crunchy side.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Add herbs like parsley or basil to garlic butter for extra flavor.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Roasting vegetables like asparagus or zucchini brings out their sweetness and pairs well with the salmon.
• Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil make a great earthy contrast.

With Lemon Wedge

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon over the dish just before serving to brighten flavors even more.

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How to Perfect Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Creating the perfect Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta involves some careful techniques. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and lemons elevate the flavor significantly compared to frozen or bottled alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Bake until just flaky; overcooking can lead to dry salmon and ruin the dish.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Save some pasta water before draining, as it helps create a creamy sauce.
• Toss Gently: When combining pasta with the sauce, toss gently to keep salmon chunks intact.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
2. Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad brings a nutritious grain option that complements the pasta’s creaminess.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs creates a hearty side that balances flavors well.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the dish.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze enhances presentation and taste.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary are always a comforting choice.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a nostalgic summer side that pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Salmon: This can lead to a dry texture. Always check for doneness around 25 minutes and use a fork to see if it flakes easily.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Not reserving enough pasta water can make the sauce too thick. Remember to save at least one cup before draining the pasta.
• Skipping Seasoning: Under-seasoned pasta can taste bland. Make sure to season both the salmon and the sauce generously with salt and pepper.
• Rushing the Garlic: Burning garlic can give a bitter flavor. Sauté it at medium heat until fragrant but not browned, about one minute.
• Not Tossing Properly: If you don’t coat the pasta well, some bites may be dry. Toss thoroughly in the skillet after adding the sauce to ensure even coverage.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy defrosting.

Reheating Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or cream in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta that might help you out!

Can I use frozen salmon for Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What other types of pasta work with this recipe?

You can substitute linguine with spaghetti or fettuccine for different textures while maintaining great flavor.

How do I customize my Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color, or swap out parsley for dill or basil.

Is Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta healthy?

This dish offers a good balance of protein from salmon and carbs from pasta, plus healthy fats from olive oil and butter, making it a satisfying meal option.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the salmon and pasta ahead of time and combine them just before serving for best freshness.

Final Thoughts

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasoning according to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!