If you have ever dreamed of a dinner that is both indulgently creamy and packed with wholesome ingredients, the Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. This dish effortlessly combines tender pasta, flaky salmon, and vibrant broccoli florets all swirled in a luscious, garlicky, parmesan-rich sauce that sings with a hint of lemon brightness. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for a weeknight treat or a special gathering where you want to impress without the fuss. Every bite restores the soul and satisfies the palate with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is simple, but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish shine. From the hearty pasta providing the foundation, to the fresh broccoli adding a burst of color and crunch, and the salmon lending rich protein and moisture — every component complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape for a great sauce cling;
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds freshness and a pop of green to brighten the dish;
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a lovely sear on the salmon and subtle flavor boost;
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet: The star protein, tender and full of omega-3s;
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning essentials to bring out all the natural flavors;
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce and enriches the garlic’s aroma;
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with warm, savory depth;
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth;
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty tang that anchors the creaminess;
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the flavor with a fresh citrus zing;
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the sauce’s brightness and balances richness;
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick for those who like a little heat;
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of herbal freshness and lovely color.
How to Make Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—the salt seasons the pasta inside and out. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 minutes, but with a twist: add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. This ensures the broccoli is perfectly tender yet still bright green and crisp. Drain both, but reserve about half a cup of the cooking water—it will come in handy for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, season the salmon fillet generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; it’s important the pan is hot enough to give the salmon a nice sear that locks in moisture. Cook the salmon for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove it from the pan and carefully flake into large chunks, setting them aside for later. These chunky pieces will dot the pasta beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute until fragrant—but watch closely, as garlic can burn and turn bitter quickly. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to meld it with the garlic butter. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a velvety coating that promises comfort with every bite.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the pasta and broccoli to the skillet, folding them carefully into the cream sauce. Add the flaked salmon chunks to the mixture and toss gently—too rough and you’ll break the delicate fish apart. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes now. Just before serving, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant and fresh finish.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an obvious choice, giving the dish a lovely herbal note and cheerful color. For added texture and flavor, consider tossing toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top. A few extra grates of Parmesan or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can also elevate each plate.
Side Dishes
This creamy, rich main pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm artisan baguette also make excellent companions, inviting you to scoop up every bit of sauce left on the plate. Light roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw could add another layer of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this pasta in shallow bowls accentuates its comforting nature and makes tossing at the table easy and fun. If you want to impress your guests, garnish each bowl with a small lemon wedge and microgreens for a professional touch. For family-style dinners, a platter piled high with the creamy pasta encourages sharing and lively conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, although for best flavor and texture, enjoy it within 24 hours. The sauce might thicken in the fridge, but a splash of cream or water upon reheating brings it back to life.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta is possible, but keep in mind the creamy sauce may separate or change texture slightly. To freeze, store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a small amount of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and keep it silky smooth. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent overcooking the salmon and broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?
Yes, you can substitute canned or hot-smoked salmon if fresh is not available. Just fold it in gently at the end to avoid breaking it into too-small pieces, as it’s already cooked.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative. The sauce and other ingredients remain the same and are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, or peas are great additions to boost the veggie content and add new flavors and textures. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding cream for best results.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. For an authentic creamy feel, heavy cream works best.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and a fantastic way to enjoy salmon in a creamy, satisfying way. Give it a try and you’ll likely find your weeknight dinners getting a delicious upgrade that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Print
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-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Creamy Pasta with Salmon and Broccoli is a delicious and comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender fettuccine or penne pasta tossed with fresh broccoli and flaky salmon in a rich, garlicky cream sauce enhanced with Parmesan, lemon zest, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe balances protein, veggies, and indulgent flavors in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Salmon
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted 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 crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. For the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for the sauce later.
- Prepare Salmon: Season the salmon fillet evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, until it is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove the salmon from the skillet and break it into large chunks using a fork.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and flaked salmon into the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the dish if using. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Substitute canned or hot-smoked salmon if fresh salmon is unavailable.
- Add mushrooms or spinach along with the broccoli for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten dietary restrictions.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control spiciness according to preference.
