If you are searching for a comforting yet sophisticated dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender pasta with succulent salmon and vibrant broccoli, all wrapped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce brightened with lemon, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. It’s such a rewarding meal that comes together quickly, making it a standout choice for weeknights or casual dinner parties alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the richness of the cream and Parmesan to the bright pop of lemon zest and the satisfying flake of fresh salmon, every element plays a crucial role in crafting those unforgettable flavors.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up all that creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and keeps the salmon from sticking.
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each): Fresh or high-quality salmon provides the heart of this dish with its tender, flaky texture.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Little green bursts of nutrition and crunch that complement the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Gives the sauce a beautiful silky finish and helps mellow the garlic.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that brings luscious creaminess and richness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty dimension to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the flavor with a refreshing citrus kick.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances the richness with a touch of acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle background heat that lifts the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A lovely herbaceous finish that adds color and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is your base for perfectly tender pasta. Add the pasta and begin cooking according to the package instructions. About three minutes before you finish, toss in the broccoli florets so they steam gently alongside the pasta. This timing keeps the broccoli crisp-tender while all cooking finishes together. Then drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside—simple but essential for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down; this helps crisp the skin and locks in moisture. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes before flipping and cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until just cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then gently flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures your salmon retains its wonderful texture without overcooking.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for salmon, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds—just enough to soften and release its fragrance without burning it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer; this creates the luxurious base of your sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and if you like a bit of warmth, add the red pepper flakes now. Stir everything thoroughly so the Parmesan melts smoothly into the cream.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Salmon
Now, add the cooked pasta and broccoli right into the creamy sauce, tossing carefully to coat every strand and floret. The sauce will cling beautifully to the pasta, enriching each bite. Lastly, gently fold in the flaked salmon, taking care not to break it up too much. Warm everything through for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld before removing from heat.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley lifts the dish visually and offers a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich creaminess. Adding a few extra shavings of Parmesan or an extra crack of black pepper can also enhance each serving beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crusty garlic bread or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to bring additional texture and color to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your creamy pasta in shallow, wide bowls highlights the color contrast of the vibrant broccoli and pink salmon. For a touch of elegance, drizzle a tiny bit of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. You could even serve the pasta atop a bed of baby arugula to introduce a peppery note and some fresh greenery.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce over time, so you might want to loosen it with a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
Freezing
While cream-based pasta dishes can be tricky to freeze due to texture changes, you can freeze the salmon separately if you like to prep ahead. For the full dish, freezing is not recommended as the sauce might separate upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s texture. Avoid using a microwave if possible to keep the creamy consistency and prevent drying out the salmon.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne work wonderfully, feel free to use other varieties like rigatoni, farfalle, or even gluten-free versions to suit your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep the creamy, savory flavors intact.
Can I prepare this recipe without fresh salmon?
Sure! Pre-cooked or canned salmon works well if you’re short on time, just be sure to add it gently to avoid breaking it up too much in the sauce.
What can I add to increase the vegetable content?
Spinach, peas, or asparagus are fantastic additions. Simply toss them into the pot with the broccoli or sauté separately and fold into the pasta for more nutrients and vibrant flavors.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that enhances the other flavors without overpowering the dish. You can easily omit them if you prefer a milder profile.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe that makes it a reliable crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or winding down after a busy day, it offers both comfort and elegance with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This creamy pasta with salmon and broccoli is a delicious and satisfying Italian-inspired main course that combines tender salmon fillets, fresh broccoli florets, and pasta tossed in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, this recipe balances rich flavors with nutritious ingredients to create a comforting yet elegant dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Salmon and Seasoning
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.
- Prepare the salmon: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. Place salmon skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through. Remove salmon from skillet, let it cool slightly, then flake into chunks.
- Make the cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine sauce and pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add salmon and finish: Fold the flaked salmon into the pasta mixture and heat through for a minute or two. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked or canned salmon to save time in a hurry.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Add extra vegetables such as peas or spinach for added nutrition and color.
