Description
Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
:
For the Salmon and Shrimp:
2 salmon fillets (skinless)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine or linguine
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Salmon and Shrimp:
Season the salmon and shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
Add Italian seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Top with the seared salmon and shrimp.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
This Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a luxurious and flavorful dish!
Perfect for seafood lovers, it pairs tender salmon and juicy shrimp with a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, gather all ingredients and equipment. Start boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta. While it heats, pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a good sear. Season the seafood. Begin cooking the pasta when the water reaches a rolling boil. As it cooks, sear the salmon in the preheated skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. After removing the salmon, cook the shrimp quickly. Use the flavorful fond left in the skillet as the base for your Alfredo sauce. Build the sauce by slowly incorporating the cheese off the direct heat to prevent separation. Finally, combine all components gently, flaking the salmon into large chunks as you add it.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta immediately for the best texture. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the seafood. A crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. For vegetables, steamed asparagus or roasted broccolini are excellent choices. Pair with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay. For a restaurant-style touch, offer extra grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes at the table.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente, reserving some water. Sear seasoned salmon, then shrimp, in olive oil. In the same pan, make a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, adding cream and Parmesan. Toss pasta in sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Gently fold in the cooked seafood, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon? Yes, ensure both are fully thawed and patted very dry before seasoning to avoid steaming.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich. You can also use a lighter fish like cod.
My sauce broke or became grainy. How do I fix it? Remove it from heat immediately. Whisk in a tablespoon of hot pasta water or more cream until it re-emulsifies. Adding cheese off direct heat prevents this.
What other pasta shapes work well? Rigatoni, pappardelle, or bowtie pasta are great alternatives that hold the creamy sauce effectively.
Can I prepare any components ahead? You can cook the seafood and make the sauce ahead, but combine everything fresh when serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. They cook in just 2-3 minutes per side.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to the sauce while it’s at a rolling boil, causing it to clump.
- Skipping the step of reserving starchy pasta water, which is essential for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Moving the salmon fillets too soon in the pan; let them sear undisturbed to form a golden crust.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is an impressive yet approachable meal that turns simple ingredients into a decadent experience. Mastering the technique of building the sauce in the same pan used for the seafood layers incredible flavor into every component. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-quality dish perfect for a special dinner or a satisfying weekend feast. Enjoy the process and the delicious results.