Description
A vibrant and flavorful Salmon Pasta featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets tossed with al dente spaghetti, blistered cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of lemon. This quick and easy skillet dish balances rich seafood flavors with fresh, zesty accents for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining to use later for sauce consistency.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until cooked through. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until the tomatoes blister and become juicy.
- Toss Pasta with Tomatoes: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the blistered tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to coat the noodles evenly and create a light sauce.
- Warm Salmon With Pasta: Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and allow them to warm through with the pasta for 1–2 minutes, integrating flavors.
- Season and Garnish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them on top for a fresh herbal aroma.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired, for an added burst of freshness.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Ensure salmon is patted dry before searing for a crisp skin.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick but can be omitted for milder flavor.
- Fresh basil enhances aroma and taste; substitute with parsley if unavailable.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures and fresh flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
