Description
Looking for a vibrant and satisfying dinner idea that’s both elegant and effortless? This *Best Lemon Pasta With Salmon* recipe is a perfect blend of zesty lemon flavor, creamy sauce, and tender salmon — all tossed with silky pasta for a comforting yet fresh meal. It’s one of those quick dinners that feel gourmet without the hassle. Whether you’re in need of an easy recipe for busy nights or a light yet indulgent dish for guests, this one checks all the boxes. Perfect for those who love healthy dinner ideas, creamy lemon pasta, and high-protein food ideas that come together in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients
8 oz tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 shallot, finely chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper, cook 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate and flake into chunks.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add lemon juice and heavy cream to the skillet. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat, and gently fold in salmon chunks. Cook another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
6. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Fresh salmon works best, but high-quality canned salmon can save time.
Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
Add a spoonful of mascarpone cheese for an ultra-creamy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: creamy lemon pasta, salmon pasta, easy dinner, seafood pasta, healthy pasta recipe, quick dinner, easy pasta idea