Description
Blackened Salmon with Creamy Pasta: A Perfectly Spiced, Elegant Meal
This blackened salmon, served with a creamy pasta and fresh tomatoes, is an indulgent and flavorful dish that balances perfectly with the savory spice of the salmon and the richness of the creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
For the salmon:
2 salmon fillets
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the pasta:
8 oz linguine or spaghetti
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides of the salmon fillets.
Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cook the Pasta: While the salmon bakes, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the salmon, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Plate the pasta and top with the blackened salmon fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
This blackened salmon with creamy pasta is a bold and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let me know if you need more recipes or modifications!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Season: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine all dry spices in a bowl. Pat salmon fillets dry, then rub the spice mix thoroughly onto all sides.
2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Carefully place salmon in the skillet. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a dark crust forms.
3. Finish in Oven: Flip fillets and immediately transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until salmon flakes easily.
4. Pasta & Sauce: While salmon bakes, cook pasta to al dente. Drain. In the same skillet (after removing salmon), sauté tomatoes in oil for 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, add cream and Parmesan, stirring until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine & Serve: Toss the drained pasta directly into the creamy sauce until fully coated. Season. Plate pasta immediately and top with the finished salmon fillet.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this dish on a warm platter or individual plates for immediate service. A final garnish of chopped fresh parsley and a light sprinkle of Parmesan adds color and flavor. For a complete meal, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or with steamed asparagus or green beans. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the spices and cream sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
This elegant meal comes together by first creating a bold spice rub for salmon fillets, which are seared and then finished in the oven. Simultaneously, cook pasta and create a quick, creamy Parmesan sauce with blistered tomatoes in the same skillet. Combine pasta and sauce, then top with the flaky, blackened salmon for a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fish? Yes. Firm-fleshed fish like cod, halibut, or trout work well, but adjust cooking time as thickness varies.
How can I make the sauce less rich? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or a splash of pasta water. Full-fat Greek yogurt is another tangy alternative.
My spice rub is burning. What did I do wrong? Your skillet is likely too hot. Medium-high heat is key. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the salmon.
Can I prepare the spice rub ahead? Absolutely. Mix the dry spices and store in an airtight container for up to a month for quick use.
Is the salmon skin edible? If your fillets have skin, sear them skin-side down first. The skin becomes crispy and is delicious to eat, or you can easily remove it after cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon continues to cook after removal from the oven. It should be slightly translucent in the very center when taken out.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh Parmesan for a smooth melt.
- Crowding the Skillet: Sear salmon in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the fish and prevents a proper blackened crust.
- Neglecting to Season the Sauce: The pasta and sauce need adequate salt and pepper. Taste and season after combining.
Conclusion
This Blackened Salmon with Creamy Pasta is a masterclass in balancing bold, spicy flavors with luxurious, comforting textures. It proves that an impressive, elegant dinner doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a stunning centerpiece meal that is sure to delight. The versatility of the dish allows for easy customization, ensuring it can become a cherished go-to recipe for any night you want to dine exceptionally well.