Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon
Highlighted under: Balanced Diet | Healthy Life
I absolutely adore making Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon whenever I have a craving for something light yet satisfying. This dish comes together in no time and brings a burst of fresh flavors to the table, thanks to the zing of the lemon and the aromatic dill. The perfectly cooked salmon adds a delightful richness that perfectly complements the pasta, making it a hit at family dinners and casual gatherings alike. Give it a try and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience without compromising on taste!
When I first experimented with Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon, I wanted to create a dish that captured the essence of summer on a plate. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh dill not only brightens the pasta but also elevates the salmon to an entirely new level. I find that lightly searing the salmon keeps it juicy and tender, and pairing it with a touch of cream in the sauce gives the dish a luxurious finish.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility; you can easily swap out the salmon for shrimp or even grilled chicken, depending on what you have on hand. Plus, the whole dish is ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxing weekends. Trust me, once you make this pasta, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor profile that awakens the palate
- Creamy sauce that balances the freshness of the ingredients
- Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners or lunch prep
Ingredients
Ingredients for Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Salmon Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Note:
Feel free to adjust the amount of dill and lemon according to your preference!
Instructions
How to Make Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Sear the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir in the chopped dill and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Place the seared salmon on top, garnish with additional dill and lemon zest, and serve warm.
Serving Tip:
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice, olive oil, and dill for 30 minutes before cooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or cashew cream for a lighter option.
→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply replace the pasta with a gluten-free variety and ensure your cream is gluten-free as well.
→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, peas, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
Lemon Dill Pasta with Salmon
Created by: The Ximenabakes Team
Recipe Type: Balanced Diet | Healthy Life
Skill Level: beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Salmon Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir in the chopped dill and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Place the seared salmon on top, garnish with additional dill and lemon zest, and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice, olive oil, and dill for 30 minutes before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 22g