Description
Creamy cajun salmon pasta delivers a spicy Mediterranean-inspired culinary adventure from coastal kitchens. Rich parmesan, tender salmon, and zesty seasonings create perfect flavor harmony for hungry diners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 salmon fillets
Pasta and Noodles:
- 8 ounces (227 grams) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy and Cream:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
Oils and Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
- Generously coat salmon with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage across the entire fillet.
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown crust and reaching perfect doneness. Transfer to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden.
- Slowly incorporate heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and broth, whisking continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Introduce cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and fresh spinach. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting flavors meld and vegetables slightly soften.
- Break salmon into delicate chunks and gently reintroduce to the simmering sauce.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, carefully tossing to ensure every strand is lavishly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Finish the dish with a bright splash of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Customize the Cajun seasoning intensity by adjusting the amount to suit personal heat tolerance.
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture, ensuring it’s patted dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Opt for whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles to make the dish lower in carbs and more nutritionally dense.
- If you’re dairy-sensitive, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 730 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg