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Creamy Tuscan Salmon and Pasta Recipe

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3.8 from 2 reviews

This creamy Tuscan salmon and pasta recipe combines perfectly seared salmon with a rich, flavorful sauce made from heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh spinach. Tossed with fettuccine pasta, this dish is a luxurious and comforting meal ready in just 18 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 3 tbsp salted butter
  • 1 tsp paprika powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground pepper
  • 1 lb salmon filets

Sauce

  • 2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
  • 1 tsp basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)

Pasta

  • 1 lb fettuccine pasta

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a roaring boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Strain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Pan sear the salmon: Remove the salmon from the refrigerator to bring to room temperature for even cooking. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Pat dry the salmon filets with paper towels. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon skin side down in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
  3. Build the sauce: In the same pan, sauté the chopped garlic in the remaining butter for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add basil, red pepper flakes, sun dried tomatoes, and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a light boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat.
  4. Combine: Toss the cooked fettuccine pasta in the creamy sauce until evenly coated. Plate the pasta and top with the seared salmon along with any juices that have accumulated. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese. Serve immediately. Mangia!

Notes

  • Allowing the salmon to come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking.
  • Use salted water for cooking pasta to enhance flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly.
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese will melt better and provide richer flavor.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the texture may be less creamy.