– **Title**: One Pot Creamy Salmon Pasta
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 lb (450 g) salmon fillets, skinless and boneless
– 2 cups spinach (fresh)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried dill (or fresh dill if available)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.
5. While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and dill.
6. Once the pasta is almost cooked, place the salmon fillets on top of the pasta, cover the pot, and let the salmon steam for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
7. After the salmon is cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces using a fork and gently stir it into the pasta.
8. Add the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, stirring until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are warm.
9. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with lemon wedges and additional dill if desired.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting One Pot Salmon Pasta!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine works well for this recipe, offering a nice texture. If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free options, those alternatives can save on calories and meet dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This adds depth to the dish. You can also use seafood broth for an extra layer of flavor. If that’s not available, water with a little seasoning will work, though it won’t be as rich.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is best, but you could substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Just note that the texture may differ slightly.
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal, but frozen salmon can work too—just make sure it’s thawed before cooking. You can substitute with another fish like trout or even shrimp if you prefer.
Dill: Fresh dill is wonderful for brightness, but if you don’t have it, use a teaspoon of dried dill. In a pinch, you could also use thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! First, make sure your salmon pieces are uniform in size to cook evenly. Add them to the pasta towards the end of cooking so they gently cook through without becoming dry.
- Gently stir the salmon into the pasta—this keeps the pieces intact and ensures even cooking.
- Cook just until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 3-5 minutes, depending on the size of your cubes.
- If using frozen salmon, check for doneness by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Salmon Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 ounces salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Creamy Salmon Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 to 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together until the onion turns translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a fantastic flavor to your pasta!
2. Boil the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. This will be the base for your pasta, so let it come to a nice bubble.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Add the linguine or fettuccine to the boiling broth, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the pasta occasionally, and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes depending on the pasta type. Keep an eye on it!
4. Add Cream and Salmon:
When your pasta is almost done, lower the heat and gently add the heavy cream and cubed salmon to the pot. Stir everything together carefully, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. The sauce should become thick and creamy at this stage.
5. Season and Rest:
Next, stir in the dried or fresh dill, and taste the sauce. You can add more salt and pepper if you like. Once it’s seasoned to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes. This helps the sauce thicken up a bit more.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, plate the pasta up warm. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you want. Dive in and enjoy your creamy, flavorful salmon pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the linguine or fettuccine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different shapes may require more or less time to cook in the broth!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut milk or cashew cream. Keep in mind that these options may slightly alter the flavor and texture, so adjust seasoning as needed!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out the pasta.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. This enhances the flavor and adds nutritional value to your dish! Just make sure to adjust cooking times so everything cooks evenly.
