Creamy Salmon Linguine: A Simple, Elegant Recipe

This recipe for creamy salmon linguine is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor and texture. This guide will walk you through each step, providing tips and tricks for achieving the perfect dish. We’ll focus on SEO best practices to ensure this recipe is easily discoverable online.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves two. Easily double or triple for larger groups.

• 1 pound linguine pasta: Choose a good quality pasta for the best results.
• 1 pound salmon fillet: Skin on or off, your preference! Look for a sustainably sourced salmon.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is always best.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness and creaminess.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is ideal.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
• Fresh dill (optional): For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Salmon:

• While the pasta is cooking, season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.

3. Create the Creamy Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.

4. Combine and Serve:

• Add the cooked linguine to the sauce and toss to coat. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
• Gently stir in the flaked salmon.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh dill (if using).

Tips and Variations:

• Add vegetables: Incorporate sauteed spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, chives, or basil.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
• Add other protein: Substitute the salmon with shrimp, scallops, or chicken.

SEO Keywords Used:

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Conclusion:

This creamy salmon linguine recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Follow these simple steps and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Remember to share your culinary creations on social media using relevant hashtags to increase visibility!