Description
Blackened Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
Prepare the Salmon: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side. Finish cooking in the oven for 10-12 minutes until salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if necessary and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and add heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Sauté the Asparagus: While the sauce is simmering, heat a little olive oil in a separate pan and sauté the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat. Plate the pasta, top with blackened salmon, shrimp, and a side of asparagus. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy! Serve hot and savor the flavorful combo of blackened salmon, shrimp, and creamy pasta!
I hope this recipe is just as delicious as the one in the picture! Let me know if you need any more ideas.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, preheat your oven and season the salmon. Sear it in a hot pan to create a flavorful crust before transferring to the oven. While the salmon bakes, use the same pan to cook the shrimp, capturing all the delicious fond. In parallel, start your pasta water boiling and trim your asparagus. As the pasta cooks, prepare the Alfredo sauce in the pan used for the proteins, ensuring all those flavors are incorporated. Finally, sauté the asparagus quickly in a separate pan to maintain its crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this decadent dish family-style on a large platter or individually for a restaurant-quality presentation. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, a crisp Chardonnay or a dry Riesling complements the rich cream and blackened spices beautifully. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the meal’s richness.
How-to Summary
This dish involves cooking components in sequence: blacken and bake the salmon, sauté the shrimp, boil the pasta, create a Parmesan cream sauce, and quickly cook the asparagus. Combine the pasta with the sauce, then top with the seafood and asparagus. The key is utilizing one pan for the salmon, shrimp, and sauce to layer flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Chicken or scallops work wonderfully with the blackening seasoning and creamy Alfredo.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and paprika from the salmon rub for a milder flavor profile.
What’s the best way to prevent overcooked shrimp? Cook shrimp just until they turn opaque and form a “C” shape. They continue to cook slightly off the heat.
Can I prepare any elements ahead of time? You can season the salmon and shrimp, trim the asparagus, and grate the cheese ahead to streamline cooking.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the salmon, as this steams it instead of creating a blackened crust. Do not add Parmesan cheese to boiling cream, as high heat can cause it to become grainy; let the cream simmer first. Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly patted dry before sautéing to achieve a good sear. Finally, do not overcook the asparagus; it should be tender-crisp to provide textural contrast.
Conclusion
This Blackened Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo is an impressive yet approachable meal that combines bold, spicy flavors with luxurious creaminess. By managing your timing and layering flavors in one pan, you create a restaurant-worthy dish at home. The step-by-step guide ensures success, while the serving suggestions and FAQs help you customize the experience. Remember the common pitfalls to avoid, and you’re guaranteed a delicious, satisfying dinner that is sure to become a favorite.