Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of salmon and the brightness of lemon in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal. Its unique combination of flavors makes it stand out, ensuring every bite is satisfying and delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in under an hour.
Rich Flavor: The combination of lemon and butter creates a creamy sauce that elevates the taste of the salmon and pasta.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations, this recipe fits any menu.
Nutrient-Packed: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Large pot
Large skillet
Aluminum foil
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting the salmon evenly.
Large pot: Necessary for boiling the linguine to al dente perfection.
Large skillet: Ideal for making the creamy sauce and combining all ingredients seamlessly.

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

For Garnishing

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 generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Place half of the lemon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
Lay the salmon on top, then cover with the remaining lemon slices.
Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and bake until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, about 25 minutes.
Once done, break up the salmon into large chunks using a fork.

Step 3: Cook the Linguine

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt butter until bubbly.
2. Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and ¼ cup reserved pasta water; whisk to combine.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Enjoy your Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta as an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that brings brightness and flavor to any table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.
Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.

Complement with Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette slices topped with garlic butter create a crunchy side that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
Cheesy Garlic Bread – Add mozzarella for an extra cheesy treat that everyone will love.

Add Vegetables

Steamed Asparagus – Bright green asparagus spears provide a healthy and elegant side.
Roasted Broccoli – Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy.

Drizzle with Extra Lemon Juice

Fresh Lemon Wedges – Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add more citrus brightness to their servings.

How to Perfect Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

To make your Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh salmon and high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavors of your dish.
Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Bake until just flaky to keep it moist and tender.
Reserve Pasta Water Wisely – The starchy pasta water helps bind your sauce; use it sparingly for desired consistency.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Feel free to add more lemon juice or red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables – Adding seasonal veggies can brighten up the dish both visually and nutritionally.
Serve Immediately – Enjoy this dish right after preparing for the best texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes with garlic seasoning offer a hearty addition to your plate.
Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil complements the flavors of the pasta beautifully.
Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a fresh contrast to the rich pasta dish.
Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs creates a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
Sautéed Spinach – Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic adds vibrant color and essential nutrients.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is always a hit; grill it for added flavor during summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon too long can make it dry. Use a fork to check if it flakes easily after about 25 minutes in the oven.
Skipping pasta water: Pasta water is crucial for the sauce’s texture. Always reserve some before draining to help bring the sauce together.
Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season both the salmon and the pasta adequately with salt and pepper.
Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and cream can cause the sauce to separate. Ensure they are at room temperature before adding them to the skillet.
Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip this step; it brightens up the dish beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep it cool and away from strong-smelling foods.

Freezing Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta? Here are some frequently asked questions that might help!

Can I use other types of fish for Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with trout or cod, but cooking times may vary slightly.

What sides go well with Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta?

Consider serving with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for balance.

How do I make Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta spicy?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for extra kick.

Can I prepare Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most components in advance but combine them just before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different herbs. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta

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Author: Grace
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Lemon-Butter Salmon Pasta is a bright and creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with zesty lemon in a luscious sauce. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Featuring tender linguine enveloped in a velvety sauce and topped with flaky salmon, every bite brings a satisfying balance of flavors. With a mere 10-minute prep time and simple cooking steps, you’ll have an impressive meal on the table in no time. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

2 lb salmon fillet
1 lb linguine
4 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Kosher salt and black pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley and Parmesan for garnishing

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Season the salmon with salt and pepper, layering lemon slices on top. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for about 25 minutes.
Cook linguine in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cream, lemon juice, zest, and reserved pasta water; whisk to combine.
Toss cooked linguine in the sauce, fold in baked salmon chunks, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American