Description
Cajun salmon pasta delivers a spicy Southern culinary adventure through rich, zesty flavors. Pasta combines perfectly seasoned salmon with a creamy sauce that promises a delightful meal you’ll savor to the last bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 salmon fillets
Pasta and Starch:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy and Cream:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Oils and Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup pasta water (if needed)
Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Season salmon generously with Cajun spice blend, ensuring even coating for robust flavor profile.
- Heat large skillet over medium-high heat, creating optimal searing environment for salmon fillet.
- Cook salmon skin-side down for approximately 4-5 minutes until crisp golden exterior develops, then flip and cook additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove salmon from pan, allowing it to rest while preparing pasta sauce.
- In same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, releasing aromatic essence.
- Pour half-and-half into skillet, whisking continuously to prevent scorching and create smooth sauce base.
- Add grated parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and sauce thickens to creamy consistency.
- Incorporate pasta directly into sauce, tossing gently to ensure thorough coating with rich, velvety mixture.
- Flake prepared salmon into bite-sized pieces, delicately folding into pasta sauce.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Cajun seasoning for enhanced visual appeal and zesty flavor.
- Serve immediately while sauce remains warm and salmon retains optimal texture.
Notes
- Dial up or tone down the Cajun seasoning to match your personal heat tolerance, creating a customized spice level that suits your palate.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter, less caloric sauce that still delivers rich, creamy texture.
- Opt for gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly and inclusive for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Quickly sear salmon to retain its moisture and prevent overcooking, ensuring a tender, flaky fish that melts in your mouth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 750 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg