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
Scale
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.
