Description
Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
2 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Pasta:
10 oz linguine or fettuccine
1 tbsp unsalted butter (for pasta sauce)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for a zesty kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Salmon:
Season the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets skin-side down for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
Optional: Toss in spinach and let it wilt.
4. Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until well-coated. Add lemon juice if desired.
5. Serve:
Plate the creamy pasta and top with the seared salmon. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips
Pair with a side of garlic bread
or roasted vegetables
for a complete meal.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish that combines creamy pasta with perfectly seasoned salmon!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed sequence. First, prep all ingredients before heating any pans. Season the salmon generously. As the pasta boils, sear the salmon in a hot skillet to get a flavorful crust. After removing the salmon, immediately start the sauce in the same skillet to capture the fond. Simmer the cream gently to prevent splitting, then add the cheese off the direct heat to ensure a smooth sauce. Finally, toss the pasta vigorously in the sauce to help it cling before topping with the flaked salmon.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this dish family-style for a casual meal or individually for a dinner party. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For wine, a buttery Chardonnay or a dry Riesling pairs excellently. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color and heat.
How-to Summary
Boil pasta, reserving water. Sear Cajun-seasoned salmon in butter and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic, add Cajun seasoning, then cream and Parmesan to create a sauce. Toss pasta in sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Serve pasta topped with the seared salmon fillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, shrimp or chicken breast work wonderfully. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling vigorously after dairy is added.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a lighter version, use half-and-half, but note the sauce will be less thick and rich. A roux (butter and flour) can help thicken it.
My sauce is too thick. What should I do? Use the reserved starchy pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be made a day ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta and salmon fresh and combine just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Salmon: It will continue to cook after removal. Aim for slightly underdone in the center when you take it off the heat.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh cheese.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy water is crucial for helping the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta.
- Burning the Garlic and Spices: Sauté garlic just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) before adding liquid to prevent a bitter taste.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to make at home. The key lies in building layers of flavor—from the perfectly seared, seasoned salmon to the rich, spiced cream sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a spectacular, comforting meal that is sure to impress. Its balance of heat, creaminess, and freshness makes it a versatile recipe perfect for any occasion.