Grilled Salmon Pasta: The Easiest Weeknight Recipe

Grilled salmon pasta, a symphony of smoky flavors and creamy textures, is the dish that unexpectedly launched gotastyrecipes.com. I remember experimenting one summer evening, the aroma of grilled salmon mingling with garlic and herbs. The result was heavenly, a dish that felt both comforting and elegant. I knew I had to share it. This grilled salmon pasta recipe is special, and I cannot wait for you to enjoy it with your friends and family.

Why You Will Love This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

This grilled salmon pasta is comfort food elevated. The perfectly grilled salmon, flaking apart into tender morsels, combined with your favorite pasta and a creamy sauce is a weeknight win. It’s also surprisingly quick to make for all its delicious flavors. This is a dinner that will impress anyone, without requiring hours in the kitchen. The fresh herbs and lemony finish also add a touch of brightness that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.

I love how customizable this recipe is. You can use different types of pasta, add vegetables, or adjust the creaminess of the sauce to your liking. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover grilled salmon! The whole family will adore this creamy pasta dinner.

Ingredients Needed for This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

• For the Salmon:

* 2 (6ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1 teaspoon smoked paprika * ½ teaspoon garlic powder * Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Pasta:

* 1 pound pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well) * 2 tablespoons olive oil * 2 cloves garlic, minced * ½ cup dry white wine (optional) * 1 cup heavy cream * ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving * ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley * 2 tablespoons lemon juice * Salt and pepper to taste * Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

1. 1. Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

1. 2. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down if the skin is on. Grill for 46 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Let cool slightly, then flake the salmon into bite sized pieces.

1. 3. Cook the Pasta: While the salmon is grilling, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

1. 4. Make the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.

1. 5. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

1. 6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and flaked salmon to the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges.

How to Serve This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

This grilled salmon pasta is delicious on its own as a complete meal, or you can pair it with a simple side salad for a lighter option. Crusty bread for mopping up the delicious sauce is always a good idea. For a more elegant presentation, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

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How to Store This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Leftover grilled salmon pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Tips to Make This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and rubbery. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and lemon juice add a bright, vibrant flavor to the dish.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to thicken the sauce and create a creamy emulsion.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: You can add more or less cream and cheese to adjust the thickness and richness of the sauce. Feel free to try a slow cooker version of this recipe for extra flavor infusion!

Helpful Notes for This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

For the best flavor, use highquality salmon fillets. Sockeye salmon or king salmon will both work well. If you don’t have white wine on hand, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also add vegetables to this dish, such as asparagus, peas, or spinach. Simply saute the vegetables with the garlic before adding the cream and cheese.

Variation of This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a lighter version, use halfandhalf instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute the salmon with grilled shrimp or chicken. Try to mimic some of the taste of this dish with a delicious salad as well! Using seasonal vegetables will give the recipe a fresh twist throughout the year.

FAQs About This grilled salmon pasta Recipe

Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of grilled salmon? A: While fresh grilled salmon is preferred for its flavor and texture, canned salmon can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin. Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: It’s best to make this dish fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can grill the salmon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. You can also prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the cooked pasta and salmon until you’re ready to serve. Have you had the pleasure of experiencing grilled salmon in a salad yet? Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with other hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago

Conclusion

Now that you have the ins and outs of crafting the perfect grilled salmon pasta, it’s time to unleash your inner chef and give it a try! This recipe is a testament to my belief in simple, delicious meals that bring people together. I hope this grilled salmon pasta becomes a new favorite in your household. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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