Description
This Salmon Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender baked salmon and linguine tossed in a creamy, lemony sauce infused with garlic and herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that balances rich flavors and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 lb. salmon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 lb. linguine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup pasta water (or chicken broth)
- Zest and juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon into a baking dish. Drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano, dried thyme, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Lay the thinly sliced lemons over the top of the salmon.
- Bake Salmon: Place the baking dish into a cold oven, then turn the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C). Bake the salmon for approximately 25 minutes until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Cook Pasta: While the salmon bakes, cook the linguine according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Start Sauce: In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids to Sauce: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water (or chicken broth). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Cream: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return to medium-low heat and cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Cook together for a few more minutes until the pasta is warmed through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving platter. Place the baked salmon on top of the pasta. Garnish with additional lemon slices and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Using pasta water in the sauce helps to thicken it and bind it to the pasta due to the starch content.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but remain moist.
- Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness but can be substituted or omitted based on preference.
- Reserve lemon slices for garnish to enhance presentation and fresh citrus aroma.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
