Grilled Salmon Pasta: The Easiest Weeknight Recipe

December 12, 2025

By:

grilled salmon pasta is one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug. It’s vibrant, comforting, and endlessly adaptable to whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. I remember creating this recipe on a particularly chilly evening. The smoky char of the grilled salmon combined with the creamy sauce and perfectly al dente pasta transported me back to summer days on the coast. grilled salmon pasta is quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.

This recipe is far more than just throwing flavors together. It’s about creating an experience, a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. It’s become a staple in our home, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You Will Love This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

This grilled salmon pasta recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly comforting. The combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flaky grilled salmon is simply irresistible. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the flavors are just phenomenal. The smoky grilled flavor of the salmon complements the rich and creamy sauce beautifully.

I also love that this recipe is so easy to customize. You can add different vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. This makes it a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you have on hand. And honestly, the smell of the grill and the satisfaction after whipping up this dish is why it has become one of my go-to’s for an accessible yet impressive meal, much like I felt when developing my Salmon Quinoa Bowls.

Ingredients Needed for This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious grilled salmon pasta recipe:

For the Salmon:
- 2 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound pasta (such as linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect grilled salmon pasta:

Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Cook the Pasta: While the salmon is grilling, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Deglaze (Optional): If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Add Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Flake the Salmon: Gently flake the grilled salmon into bite sized pieces with a fork, ensuring you don't over shred it.
Combine: Gently fold the flaked salmon and parsley into the pasta. Be careful not to break the pasta.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge.

How to Serve This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

This grilled salmon pasta is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.

For a more elegant presentation, you can plate the pasta in individual bowls and top with a few flakes of salmon, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors. It has flavor profiles similar to my Honey Teriyaki Salmon, but stands on its own due to the creamy pasta instead of served with a side dish.

How to Store This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled salmon pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate and the pasta can become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Be careful not to overcook the salmon.

Tips to Make This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the pasta with your favorite type. Whole wheat pasta, gluten free pasta or even zucchini noodles work great.
Success Tip: Don’t overcook the salmon! It should be cooked through but still moist and tender.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente, meaning “to the tooth,” with a slight bite.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.

Helpful Notes for This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Ingredient Details: Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated is always preferable!
Equipment Recommendation: A grill pan can be used if you don’t have an outdoor grill. You can also broil the salmon in the oven.
Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the grilled salmon and creamy pasta sauce.

Variation of This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal vegetables to the pasta for a fresh twist. Asparagus in the spring, cherry tomatoes in the summer, butternut squash in the fall, or kale in the winter are all great options.
Optional Versions: For a lighter version, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream.
Creative Modifications: Add a dollop of ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese to the pasta for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of pasta to use with grilled salmon?

Long pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work exceptionally well with grilled salmon pasta. Their surface area allows them to capture the flavorful sauce and flakes of salmon.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out when grilling?

To prevent dry salmon, marinate it beforehand and grill it over medium heat. Avoid overcooking, and consider using a cedar plank for added moisture and flavor.

What are some good vegetables to add to grilled salmon pasta?

Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers are excellent additions to grilled salmon pasta. They add color, texture, and complementary flavors to the dish.

Can I use smoked salmon instead of grilled salmon in this pasta recipe?

Yes, smoked salmon can be a delicious substitute for grilled salmon. Simply add it to the pasta towards the end of cooking to warm it through without overcooking.

How can I make grilled salmon pasta creamy?

You can make the sauce creamy by adding heavy cream, crème fraîche, or a cheese sauce made with Parmesan or mascarpone. Stir it in just before serving for a rich and decadent dish.

Conclusion

This grilled salmon pasta truly offers a harmony of smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors. It’s a quick and simple meal that is sure to impress family and friends. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish. This grilled salmon pasta is waiting to be shared. Let me know what you think in the comments below!