Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

Name: Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti or other pasta; 227 grams (1/2 pound) fresh salmon, skinless if possible; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 120 milliliters (1/2 cup) dry white wine or chicken broth; 180 milliliters (3/4 cup) heavy cream; 15 milliliters (1 tablespoon) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 50 grams (1/2 cup) freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Author: Lora

Published: June 26, 2025

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Introduction to Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

As a busy mom, I often find myself juggling work, family, and the never-ending to-do lists. So, when I discover a dish like Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce, it feels like a little slice of heaven. This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, bursting with rich flavors while being quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for those family dinners when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. I promise, every spoonful will make you feel like a culinary superstar!

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

This Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful blend of convenience and flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that the whole family will devour. With creamy garlic sauce enveloping tender salmon and pasta, every bite feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary night into something special, making it a go-to for busy moms like us!

Ingredients for Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce, you’ll need a combination of kitchen staples and fresh flavors that will elevate your meal.

Pasta: Any type will do, but spaghetti or linguine works beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Fresh Salmon: I prefer skinless salmon for a more refined taste, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer.
Onion Powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish without being overpowering.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these ingredients bring out the natural flavors of the salmon and pasta.
Olive Oil: A healthy option that gives a nice richness when cooking the salmon.
Butter: Adds a hint of decadence and makes the sauce velvety smooth.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for thickening your sauce, creating that creamy consistency we all crave.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with bold flavor—more is always better in my book!
White Wine or Chicken Broth: Using dry white wine gives a wonderful depth, but chicken broth is a great substitute for a non-alcoholic option.
Heavy Cream: The star of the show—this is what makes the sauce creamy and delightful!
Fresh Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated freshly, it adds a salty nuttiness that elevates everything to another level.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds an aromatic finish and a pop of color.

For exact measurements, jump to the recipe section at the bottom of the article. Excited to start cooking? Let’s move on to the next steps!

How to Make Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into making this delicious Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce! These steps are straightforward and designed for busy people like us. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. I always believe that adding salt to the water enhances the pasta’s flavor.

Add in about 8 ounces of your favorite pasta and cook it until al dente, according to the package instructions. Once cooked, don’t forget to reserve some of that pasta water before draining the rest. This water is liquid gold when it comes to adjusting your sauce’s consistency!

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta is cooking, pat down your 227 grams of fresh salmon with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

This is key to getting that beautiful golden color when searing. Season both sides of the salmon evenly with onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning brings out the salmon’s natural flavors.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter melts and begins to bubble gently.

Add in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and stir for about 30 seconds. This will create a roux, a base for our creamy sauce. It should look like a smooth paste—don’t let it brown!

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Next, whisk in 3 cloves of minced garlic, followed by 120 milliliters of dry white wine or chicken broth. Allow it to bubble for 20 seconds—this releases wonderful aromas!

Now it’s time for the heavy cream! Pour in 180 milliliters to achieve that luxurious creaminess, along with 15 milliliters of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk until it’s smooth and perfectly blended.

Step 5: Combine Salmon and Sauce

Gently place the cooked salmon back into the skillet. I like to break it into bite-sized pieces with a spoon, helping it mix seamlessly with the sauce.

Let it all simmer together for about 3 to 5 minutes. This allows the salmon to cook through while thickening the sauce just enough to coat the pasta beautifully.

Step 6: Toss in the Pasta

Now comes the fun part! Add your drained pasta to the skillet, along with about 1 tablespoon of that reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.

If you feel the sauce needs thinning, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley at the end adds a lovely color and freshness!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the pasta—aim for al dente for the best texture.
Use good-quality fresh salmon for a flavor boost.
For extra creaminess, whisk your sauce continuously to avoid lumps.
Adjust the garlic according to your taste preference; more garlic means more flavor!
Save a bit of pasta water; it helps in achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet or frying pan for cooking the salmon and sauce
Whisk for combining ingredients and preventing lumps
Wooden spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

Variations for Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: For a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Herb Alternatives: Swap fresh parsley for basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
Lighten Up: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the sauce for an extra bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

Salad: Pair with a fresh greens salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dipping into that creamy sauce.
Wine: A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish beautifully—try Sauvignon Blanc!
Presentation: Garnish with extra parmesan and a sprig of parsley for a restaurant-worthy finish.

FAQs about Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce

It’s no surprise that you might have some burning questions about this Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce! I love sharing what I’ve learned, so here are a few frequently asked questions that might help you get started.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen salmon is just as delicious and can be a time-saver when you’re short on fresh ingredients.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut cream can work in a pinch. Just remember that it may alter the flavor a little bit but still keep your sauce creamy!

Is there a vegan alternative for this creamy sauce?

Yes! Swap out the salmon for sautéed vegetables, use plant-based cream, and substitute olive oil for butter. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still be tasty!

What side dishes go well with Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce?

My go-to sides include a light salad or garlic bread. Both offer a lovely contrast to the rich, creamy pasta dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. Just cook the pasta fresh to maintain that perfect texture!

Final Thoughts

Cooking and sharing a meal like Salmon Pasta Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just feeding your family. It’s about creating memories, laughter, and those precious moments at the dinner table. As the creamy garlic sauce envelops the tender salmon and pasta, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This dish transforms a busy weeknight into a delightful culinary adventure. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family. Here’s to good food, good company, and a happy heart at the dinner table!