Salmon Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender flakes of salmon with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, lemony sauce. This elegant yet simple recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Salmon Pasta is light yet satisfying, with fresh flavors from lemon and herbs balanced by creamy crème fraîche. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of soft leeks, flaky salmon, and silky sauce makes every bite delicious.
Ingredients
- 160 g short pasta (penne or similar)
- 25 g butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large leek, thinly sliced
- 4 spring onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 salmon fillets, skin removed
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 tbsp crème fraîche
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 100 ml of pasta water, then drain.
- In a pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add leek, spring onions, and thyme. Cook gently for 5 minutes until softened (do not brown).
- Place salmon fillets on top of the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest and juice.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then flip salmon and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove salmon and set aside.
- Stir crème fraîche into the leek mixture, then add reserved pasta water gradually.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and season to taste.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Divide onto plates and flake salmon over the top. This Salmon Pasta is best served immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Cook leeks gently to avoid bitterness
- Don’t overcook salmon to keep it tender
- Use fresh lemon for best flavor
- Add extra pasta water for a silkier sauce
- Garnish with fresh herbs for brightness
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
- Difficulty: Easy
Notes
- Substitute crème fraîche with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- Use smoked salmon for a different flavor
- Add spinach or peas for extra vegetables
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 24g
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it fully before cooking.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli works well.
Can I make Salmon Pasta ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but can be reheated gently.
Can I use milk instead of crème fraîche?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less creamy.
How do I prevent dry salmon?
Cook gently and avoid overcooking.
Storage
Store Salmon Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk.
Similar Recipes
Salmon Pasta
Ingredients
- 160 g short pasta penne or similar
- 25 g butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large leek thinly sliced
- 4 spring onions sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 salmon fillets skin removed
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 3 tbsp crème fraîche
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 100 ml of pasta water, then drain.
- In a pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add leek, spring onions, and thyme. Cook gently for 5 minutes until softened (do not brown).
- Place salmon fillets on top of the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest and juice.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then flip salmon and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove salmon and set aside.
- Stir crème fraîche into the leek mixture, then add reserved pasta water gradually.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and season to taste.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Divide onto plates and flake salmon over the top. This Salmon Pasta is best served immediately.
Notes
- Substitute crème fraîche with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- Use smoked salmon for a different flavor
- Add spinach or peas for extra vegetables
Conclusion
Salmon Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that combines creamy textures with fresh, bright flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying homemade meal.