Salmon Alfredo Pasta
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Salmon Alfredo Pasta, a gourmet twist on the classic Alfredo dish. This decadent recipe combines tender, flaky salmon with a luscious Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan, all tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish promises a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Skillet or Pan – for cooking salmon and making the Alfredo sauce
- Tongs or Pasta Spoon – for tossing the pasta in the sauce
- Whisk – for blending the Alfredo sauce smoothly
- Knife and Cutting Board – for chopping garlic and parsley
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese
- Measuring cups & spoons (for accurate ingredient measurements)
Ingredients
- For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets fresh, wild-caught recommended
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika optional, for extra flavor
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg optional, for depth of flavor
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 4 cups water for boiling
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup reserved pasta water as needed
- For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before flaking into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and fettuccine.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the salmon, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
- Combine Everything:
- Toss the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Gently fold in the flaked salmon. Stir lightly to distribute evenly without breaking the salmon too much.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
Variations: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus for extra texture and nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Seafood Option: Swap salmon with shrimp, scallops, or crab for a seafood feast.
Healthier Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect balance.
Enjoy your homemade Salmon Alfredo Pasta and impress your guests with this gourmet delight!
Spicy Twist: Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Seafood Option: Swap salmon with shrimp, scallops, or crab for a seafood feast.
Healthier Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect balance.
Enjoy your homemade Salmon Alfredo Pasta and impress your guests with this gourmet delight!