This Salmon with Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a rich, flavorful, and elegant dish that combines perfectly seared salmon fillets with a creamy, tangy sauce. The lightness of the angel hair pasta complements the savory richness of the salmon, while the arugula adds a peppery bite, balancing the flavors beautifully. The sauce, made with white wine, lemon juice, and cream, is decadent without being overwhelming, making this dish an excellent choice for a special dinner or a delightful weeknight meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillets: 6 (2 ½ to 3 ounces each, about 1 to 1 ¼ pounds total), preferably wild-caught King or Sockeye
- Kosher Salt: 2 ¼ teaspoons, divided
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, divided
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, divided
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided
- Minced Shallot: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Cloves: 4, minced
- Dry White Wine or Seafood Stock: 1 cup
- Lemon Juice and Rinds: From 2 lemons (1/3 to 1/2 cup juice)
- Angel Hair Pasta: 1 pound
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Arugula: 5 ounces (4 packed cups)
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup
Directions
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Warm Your Oven: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, around 150°F, to keep the cooked salmon warm.
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Boil Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
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Season the Salmon: Rub both sides of the salmon fillets with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to season them evenly.
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Sear the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side up. Sear for about 3 minutes until the flesh turns opaque. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3 minutes, then transfer them to a sheet pan and place the pan in the warm oven to keep the salmon warm.
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Cook the Shallot: In the same sauté pan, add the remaining olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, sauté the shallot and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or seafood stock) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits left in the pan. Add the lemon rinds and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it reduce by half, which will take about 3 to 4 minutes.
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Cook the Pasta: While the sauce reduces, cook the angel hair pasta in the boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of pasta water if needed.
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Finish the Sauce: Remove the lemon rinds from the pan. Lower the heat, then stir in the remaining butter and heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Add the arugula and stir until it wilts. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing it to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
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Serve: Remove the salmon fillets from the oven and place them on top of the pasta. Serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This Salmon with Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh fish, particularly salmon, is a staple. The combination of salmon with pasta is popular in many Italian and coastal Mediterranean dishes, where seafood is paired with light, flavorful sauces. The use of lemon and garlic in the sauce is a nod to classic Mediterranean flavors, which have gained worldwide popularity for their bright, fresh, and aromatic qualities.
The rise of healthy eating and sustainable food choices has also contributed to the growing popularity of wild-caught salmon. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is considered a heart-healthy option that is both nutritious and flavorful. Angel hair pasta, being light and delicate, complements the richness of the salmon without overpowering its flavors, creating a balanced meal. This dish has become a popular choice in restaurants and home kitchens alike, especially for those looking to enjoy a refined yet easy-to-make meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The seared salmon is tender and flavorful, topped with a creamy, tangy lemon garlic sauce that pairs wonderfully with the delicate angel hair pasta. The addition of arugula adds a peppery freshness, while the grated Parmesan cheese rounds out the dish with a savory richness. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adapted with different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences.
Health Benefits of Salmon with Angel Hair Pasta
Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein and healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart health. These healthy fats also support brain function and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The heavy cream and butter in this recipe add richness and flavor, but the use of olive oil as a base helps balance the dish with heart-healthy fats.
Angel hair pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, and when paired with nutrient-dense ingredients like arugula, it contributes fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Arugula is particularly high in vitamin K and antioxidants, supporting bone health and reducing oxidative stress. The garlic and lemon juice in the sauce not only enhance the flavor but also offer immune-boosting properties. Overall, this recipe provides a good balance of macronutrients, making it a healthy and indulgent meal option.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light salad: A simple green salad with fresh vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing will complement the rich flavors of the salmon and pasta.
- Serve with roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts are perfect sides to add extra nutrition and texture to the meal.
- Add a crusty bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
- Pair with white wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the salmon and pasta.
- Top with extra Parmesan: For those who love cheese, a little extra freshly grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of richness.
Tips
- To keep the salmon warm without overcooking it, set the oven to its lowest setting, as instructed.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
- Be sure to not overcook the salmon; it should be slightly pink in the center for the best texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have arugula, spinach or kale would be great substitutes for adding that peppery, leafy element to the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
Variations to Try
- Add tomatoes: Sauté cherry tomatoes with the garlic and shallots for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Make it spicy: Add a diced chili or red pepper flakes to the sauce to give the dish a spicy twist.
- Use a different pasta: While angel hair works wonderfully, you can also try spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for a different pasta shape.
- Swap the fish: If you prefer a different fish, try using trout or sea bass, which would also work beautifully with the lemon garlic cream sauce.
Conclusion
Salmon with Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a meal that brings together rich flavors and light textures, creating a dish that is both indulgent and healthy. The tender salmon, combined with the creamy sauce, pasta, and fresh arugula, makes this a meal that you can serve on any occasion. Its ease of preparation, combined with its fresh ingredients, makes it a perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout, sea bass, or even cod.
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Can I make this recipe without wine? Yes, you can substitute the wine with seafood stock or chicken broth.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best to cook the salmon fresh, but the pasta and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and combined when ready to serve.
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Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, just substitute the angel hair pasta with a gluten-free pasta of your choice.
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Can I add other vegetables to the dish? Yes, vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients