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Lemon Butter Salmon Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

This Lemon Butter Salmon Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender linguine with a zesty lemon butter sauce, smoked salmon, and fresh parsley. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8.8 oz (250 g) linguine
  • Salt, for pasta water

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (40 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

Add-ins and Garnish

  • 3.5 oz (100 g) smoked salmon
  • A handful fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it generously. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve two cups of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  2. Heat the Oil and Butter: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely.
  3. Sauté the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened but not browned.
  4. Add Flavorings: Stir in the grated garlic, lemon zest, red chili flakes, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors into the sauce.
  5. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Transfer the drained pasta to the pan with the sauce. Use kitchen tongs to toss and coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
  6. Finish with Salmon and Parsley: Gently fold in the smoked salmon and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
  7. Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta hot for best flavor and texture, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and ensure it clings well to the pasta.
  • Use smoked salmon to add a rich, smoky flavor without overpowering the lemony sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the heat level.
  • Fresh parsley adds brightness; flat-leaf parsley is preferred for its robust flavor.
  • Serve immediately as the smoked salmon is delicate and can become tough if overcooked or reheated.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/lemon-butter-salmon-pasta-recipe/