Salmon Spinach Pasta

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Salmon Spinach Pasta: Creamy, Flavorful & Easy

This Salmon Spinach Pasta is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines flaky salmon, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

With the perfect balance of richness from the sauce, freshness from the spinach, and heartiness from the salmon, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Rich & Creamy – A garlic Parmesan sauce coats every bite.
✔ Healthy & Satisfying – Salmon provides protein and omega-3s.
✔ Perfectly Balanced – A creamy yet light dish with fresh greens.
✔ Customizable – Swap salmon for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine
  • 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water)

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

For Garnish:

  • Fresh dill or parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

How to Make Salmon Spinach Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
  3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and flaky.
  4. Remove from the pan, let rest for a few minutes, then flake into large chunks.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add spinach and lemon juice.
  5. Stir until spinach is wilted.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

  1. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
  2. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  3. Gently fold in flaked salmon.
  4. Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, and extra Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

🍞 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
🥗 With a Side Salad – Light and fresh balance to the creamy pasta.
🍋 With Extra Lemon Wedges – Enhances the dish with a bright citrus kick.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth.
  • Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Salmon Spinach Pasta is creamy, comforting, and packed with rich flavors while still feeling light and fresh. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and perfect for any night of the week!

Try this easy and elegant pasta dish today and enjoy a creamy, flavorful meal in no time!

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