There is truly something magical about this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe that makes it a standout in any weeknight dinner rotation. Picture tender, flaky salmon nestled in a luxuriously creamy sauce brightened by fresh lemon juice and fragrant dill, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an effortless combination of fresh flavors and comforting textures that feels elegant but comes together in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for two or just craving a fancy yet simple meal at home, this dish delivers big-time on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe thrives on simplicity, with each ingredient playing a vital role in creating a harmonious and vibrant dish. From the richness of cream to the zesty brightness of lemon and the delicate herbal notes of dill, these essentials work together to build layers of flavor.
- 4 ounces uncooked pasta: Use your favorite type, such as linguine or fettuccine, for the perfect base to soak up the sauce.
- 1/2 pound fresh salmon: Freshness is key here; it provides that buttery, flaky texture that makes the dish special.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning to highlight the natural flavors of the salmon and sauce.
- Flour (for dredging): Lightly coats the salmon to create a subtle crust and help thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity richness for searing the salmon beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Provides a silky texture and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine): Introduces a savory depth and slight acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: The star bright note that lifts the entire dish with vibrant freshness.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Imparts aromatic warmth and a touch of savory punch.
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: The luscious base that makes the pasta irresistibly creamy.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Adds a clean, herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements the salmon.
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, parmesan cheese: These bring extra color, texture, and an umami finish if desired.
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta Al Dente
Start by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a boil for your pasta. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it has the perfect bite to stand up to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. While the water is heating, you can begin prepping the salmon and sauce to save time.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon filet evenly with salt and pepper, then dredge it lightly in flour. This step provides a delicate coating that helps create a slight crust when seared and aids in thickening the sauce later, enhancing its texture.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully place the salmon into the pan and cook for about 2 minutes per side. This method locks in moisture and develops a lovely golden exterior. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add chicken broth (or white wine), lemon juice, and minced garlic. Let this mixture bubble for around 30 seconds to soften the garlic and deglaze the pan, collecting any flavorful browned bits left from the salmon sear. Then reduce the heat to medium to prepare for the creamy addition.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce with Salmon and Dill
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the chopped fresh dill. Return the salmon to the pan and use your spoon to break it into bite-size pieces. Let everything cook together for a few more minutes until the salmon is fully cooked through, and the sauce thickens slightly into a silky, luscious coating that will cling beautifully to the pasta.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta once al dente, then fold it gently into the skillet with your succulent cream sauce and salmon. Toss everything to coat the noodles completely, ensuring every forkful is bursting with flavor. Serve immediately, garnished to your liking, for the freshest taste and best texture.
How to Serve Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of green and a touch of brightness, while a dusting of freshly grated parmesan cheese offers a subtle umami richness that elevates the dish to restaurant quality. Feel free to get creative and add lemon zest to amplify the citrus notes!
Side Dishes
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete with the bold flavors. Think a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlic butter green beans to add crunch and freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, twirl the pasta into neat nests on the plates, nestling pieces of salmon atop. Drizzle extra sauce around the edge and finish with a dill sprig or lemon wheel on the side. This attention to detail delights both the eyes and the palate, turning a quick dinner into a memorable experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, though the texture of the pasta softens, so consider undercooking the pasta slightly if you plan to save some for later.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but since cream and pasta can change texture, it’s best to freeze the salmon and sauce separately from the pasta if you want optimal results. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best flavors.
Reheating
When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the cream sauce to separate. Stir frequently until just heated through to preserve the silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works fine as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, but the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as much. Adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavor.
What pasta type is best for Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe?
Long, flat noodles like fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle work wonderfully since they hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to play with shapes depending on your preference and pantry.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While the core of this recipe centers around salmon, you could swap in grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms and omit the fish to create a flavorful vegetarian pasta with similar creamy lemon dill notes.
How can I make this recipe more citrusy?
To amplify the citrus flavor, add extra lemon zest to the sauce and garnish. A squeeze of lemon over the finished dish just before serving also adds a fresh brightness that really sings.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings together such simple, fresh ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s the kind of meal you want to share with friends or savor on a quiet night at home, knowing each bite is full of love and bright, lively flavors. I truly hope you give this dish a try and let it brighten up your dinner table as much as it does mine!
Print
Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and flavorful Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta recipe that combines tender salmon with a luscious dill-infused cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked al dente pasta for a quick and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 4 ounces uncooked pasta
Salmon and Seasoning
- 1/2 pound fresh salmon
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente following package instructions. Start the sauce once the water is boiling for efficient timing.
- Prepare Salmon: Season the salmon evenly with salt and pepper, then dredge it lightly in flour to help with browning.
- Cook Salmon: Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the salmon and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Make Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add chicken broth (or white wine), lemon juice, and minced garlic. Allow to simmer and bubble for about 30 seconds to meld flavors, then reduce heat to medium.
- Finish Sauce and Salmon: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh dill. Return the salmon to the pan, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with your spoon. Cook for a few more minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Serve: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy salmon sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Using chicken broth or dry white wine for the sauce base provides flexibility based on preference.
- Dredging the salmon in flour helps achieve a nice sear and adds subtle thickness to the sauce.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon during searing to keep it tender and moist.
- The sauce thickens as it simmers with the cream; adjust consistency with extra broth or cream as needed.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
