Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy canned salmon pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's surprisingly flavorful, incredibly easy to make, and packed with protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes, showcasing the versatility of homemade cooking with readily available ingredients. It's one of the best recipes for a healthy, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.75 ounce) can of pink salmon, drained
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped red onion for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Salmon: Gently flake the drained salmon into the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to heat through.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the salmon sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in Dill & Serve: Stir in the fresh dill and optional red onion. Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Canned Salmon Pasta:
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon can become dry and flaky. Heating it gently is key to maintaining its moisture and flavor.
- Use good quality canned salmon: The quality of the canned salmon will impact the overall taste of the dish. Opt for salmon packed in water or olive oil, rather than in brine.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of nutmeg would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a complete meal: Add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta: Add the zest and juice of 1/2 a lemon to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes along with the heavy cream for a richer, more complex sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This delicious canned salmon pasta recipe is a testament to how simple, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinners can be. Enjoy!