Description
Creamy Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt for boiling water
For the Salmon and Shrimp:
2 salmon fillets
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp lemon zest
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente. Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Salmon and Shrimp:
Season the salmon fillets and shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the salmon fillets skin-side down for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Add lemon zest for a bright, zesty kick.
4. Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
Plate the pasta and top with the cooked salmon and shrimp.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips:
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Enjoy this decadent and luxurious dish!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by gathering all ingredients. For the seafood, pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. While the salted pasta water comes to a boil, season the seafood. In your skillet, cook the salmon first, as it takes longer. Once the salmon is removed, the shrimp will cook quickly in the residual fat. For the sauce, keep the heat at a medium simmer when adding the cream to prevent scalding. Whisk the Parmesan cheese gradually to avoid clumping. Finally, combine the al dente pasta with the sauce in the skillet, allowing it to absorb the flavors for a minute before plating with the seafood on top.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in wide, shallow bowls. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. For vegetables, steamed asparagus or roasted broccolini are excellent choices. As noted, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly. For a family-style presentation, toss everything together in a large serving dish and garnish generously with parsley and extra Parmesan.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo: 1) Boil and drain fettuccine. 2) Season and pan-sear salmon fillets, then shrimp, in olive oil and butter. 3) In the same pan, make the Alfredo sauce by sautéing garlic, simmering cream, and whisking in Parmesan and lemon zest. 4) Toss the pasta in the sauce, top with the cooked seafood, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon? Yes, ensure both are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water steaming the seafood.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. You can also use a lighter pasta like zucchini noodles.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or create a slurry with 1 tsp of cornstarch and 1 tbsp of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
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.
What’s a good Parmesan cheese substitute? For a similar salty, umami flavor, try Pecorino Romano. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly, so freshly grate your cheese if possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. They cook in just 2-4 minutes total.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump or become grainy. Remove the pan from direct heat or turn it to low before whisking in the cheese.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan that doesn’t melt properly into a silky sauce.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently, as this is the primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Crowding the pan when searing the salmon, which steams it instead of creating a flavorful crust.
Conclusion
This Creamy Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo is a restaurant-quality dish that is entirely achievable at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a luxurious, balanced meal that impresses with its creamy texture, perfectly cooked seafood, and bright citrus notes. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes personal touches, making it a surefire favorite for any special dinner.