Light, creamy, and bursting with zesty flavor, Creamy Lemon-Dill Salmon Pasta is a perfect fusion of comfort and elegance. Tender flakes of salmon are tossed with al dente pasta in a rich, lemony cream sauce, accented with the freshness of dill and the smooth depth of garlic and Parmesan. This easy yet sophisticated dish combines the heartiness of Italian pasta with the clean, bright flavors of Mediterranean seafood—ideal for weeknight meals or special dinners alike.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
| Linguine, Fettuccine, or Tagliatelle | 8 oz (225g) |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
For the Salmon:
| Salmon Fillets | 2 (about 6 oz / 170g each) |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
For the Creamy Sauce:
| Olive Oil or Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon |
|---|---|
| Shallot, finely minced | 1 medium |
| Garlic Cloves, minced | 2 |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Lemon Zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice, fresh squeezed | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Dill, chopped | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Reserved Pasta Water | ½ cup (120 ml) |
| Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional) | ¼ cup |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water (1 tablespoon salt) to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Before draining, scoop out and reserve about ½ cup (120 ml) of the starchy pasta water.
- Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- While the pasta is cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with ¼ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once shimmering, add the salmon fillets. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side (depending on thickness), until cooked through and easily flaked with a fork. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium.
- Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate. Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin if present. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cook for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant (do not let garlic burn).
- Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Salmon, and Sauce
- Add the cooked and drained pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Gently fold in the flaked salmon.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water 1-2 tablespoons at a time, tossing until you reach your desired consistency.
- If using, stir in the ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Creamy Lemon-Dill Salmon Pasta immediately in warm bowls.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill and/or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips for Success
- Don't Overcook Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Remove it from heat as soon as it's done to keep it moist and flaky for the pasta.
- Pasta Water is Gold: The starchy pasta water helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the noodles, creating a richer texture without adding more cream.
- Fresh Herbs & Lemon: Fresh dill and lemon are crucial for the vibrant flavor of this dish. Don't substitute with dried dill if possible.
- Add Greens: For an extra nutritional boost, wilt in a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of sauce simmering.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per serving, based on 2 servings)
| Calories | 700-900 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 40-50 grams |
| Fat | 45-65 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-50 grams |
| Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ High in Omega-3s and Protein: Salmon supports heart, brain, and joint health.
- ✅ Rich in Flavor, Light in Feel: Lemon and dill brighten the creamy base for a balanced dish.
- ✅ Quick and Easy: A complete, delicious dinner ready in 30 minutes or less.
- ✅ Family-Friendly and Elegant: Loved by kids and adults; suitable for everyday or entertaining.
- ✅ Customizable: Works with various pasta shapes, fresh or smoked salmon, and herb variations.
With its buttery salmon, refreshing lemon-dill cream, and comforting pasta, Creamy Lemon-Dill Salmon Pasta delivers a delicious balance of richness and brightness in every bite. Whether you're cooking a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with minimal effort, this dish brings both ease and gourmet flavor to the table.
Explore more Italian-inspired seafood recipes, creamy pasta dishes, and quick gourmet meals on our site. Try this Lemon-Dill Salmon Pasta and experience comfort food with a fresh, elegant twist.