Craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This salmon pasta recipe with crème fraîche is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and offers a delightful balance of creamy richness and fresh salmon. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire of homemade cooking. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved, for added color and freshness
Instructions:
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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.
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Sauté the salmon: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the salmon cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Season with salt and pepper.
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Create the sauce: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly. Stir in the crème fraîche, lemon juice, and dill. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
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Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the salmon and sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated in the creamy dill sauce. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes (if using) during the last minute of cooking. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
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Garnish and enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh dill.
Cooking Tips for the Best Salmon Pasta:
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Aim for a flaky texture.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill adds a bright, vibrant flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt and pepper can make all the difference.
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the salmon with pan-fried halloumi cheese or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a richer, tomato-based flavor.
- Spicy Salmon Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
- Lemon-Garlic Salmon Pasta: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a more pronounced citrusy and garlicky flavor.
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. The combination of flaky salmon, creamy crème fraîche, and fresh dill creates a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!