Description
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon cooked in a creamy lemon-dill sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente pasta. It’s an elegant yet simple recipe ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 4 ounces uncooked pasta
Salmon & Sauce
- 1/2 pound fresh salmon
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Begin preparing the sauce once the water starts boiling to ensure timing coordination.
- Prepare salmon: Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then dredge it lightly in flour to help create a delicate crust when cooked.
- Sear salmon: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until nicely seared. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Start sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Let the mixture bubble for about 30 seconds to release aromas, then reduce heat to medium.
- Finish sauce and salmon: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped dill. Return the salmon to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a spoon. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Toss pasta and serve: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce and salmon. Toss together until well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- If preferred, substitute chicken broth with dry white wine for a deeper flavor.
- Use fresh dill for the best taste; dried dill can be substituted but reduce quantity by half.
- Ensure not to overcook salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- Pair this dish with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though sauce will be less rich.
