Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta

Short Description

Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a creamy, zesty, and herbaceous dish that brings together tender flakes of salmon with a rich lemon-dill sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s the perfect balance of freshness and indulgence, ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare and ready in just 20 minutes
• Combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of lemon and dill
• Customizable with different pasta types or proteins
• A great way to include healthy omega-3s in your diet
• Restaurant-quality flavor from simple ingredients
• Creamy texture without being too heavy
• Can be made ahead for meal prep
• Great for both casual and formal occasions
• Elegant enough for entertaining
• Comforting and satisfying without requiring much effort

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh salmon fillet
• Salt and pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Lemon juice
• Chicken broth or dry white wine
• Heavy cream
• Fresh dill
• Uncooked pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon on both sides for about 2 minutes each, then remove from the pan.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, lemon juice, and chicken broth (or wine). Simmer for 1-2 minutes to deglaze.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped dill. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
6. Flake the salmon into chunks and return it to the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
7. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use different pasta: Try penne, bowtie, or tagliatelle depending on what you have on hand.
• Substitute the cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk.
• Try other herbs: If dill isn’t your favorite, basil or parsley also work well.
• Add vegetables: Mix in steamed asparagus, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrients.
• Switch the protein: Use cooked shrimp, chicken, or even tofu as an alternative to salmon.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the fish.

FAQs

What kind of salmon should I use?

Fresh skinless fillets are ideal, but you can also use canned salmon in a pinch.

Can I use dried dill?

Yes, but use only about one-third of the amount of fresh dill, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What pasta works best with this dish?

Long pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti holds the sauce well, but any pasta will work.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and salmon in advance and cook the pasta just before serving.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Not by default, but you can use plant-based cream alternatives and dairy-free butter.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the lemon and dill.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a little longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed and reheated.

Conclusion

Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta offers an easy yet elegant meal that’s full of flavor and simple to prepare. With its creamy lemon-dill sauce and tender salmon, it’s a versatile recipe that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for special occasions. Keep this one in your rotation whenever you want something fresh, satisfying, and stress-free.

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