Last updated on June 23, 2025
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing: Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta. This dish beautifully combines the rich flavors of salmon with the zing of lemon and the aromatic touch of dill, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that perfectly complements al dente pasta. Whether you are preparing a special family dinner or just treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is not just another meal; it’s a delicious whirlwind of textures and flavors. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with flaky salmon, making each bite a burst of satisfaction. The freshness of the lemon brings brightness, balancing the richness of the cream, while the dill adds an herby twist that harmonizes the entire dish. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and uses ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. So, let’s dive in, discover the ingredients, and get cooking!
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Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a fresh and creamy dish that combines tender salmon with a zesty lemon-dill sauce and your favorite pasta. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb fresh salmon
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 tsp lemon juice (preferably fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 4 oz uncooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, spaghetti, etc.)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge in flour for a crispy finish.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add broth or wine, lemon juice, and garlic. Stir and cook for 30 seconds to deglaze the pan.
- Add Cream and Dill: Stir in heavy cream and fresh dill. Break the cooked salmon into bite-sized chunks and return to the pan. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- You can swap fresh dill with dried (use about 1 tsp dried).
- Use gluten-free flour and pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Lemon dill salmon, creamy salmon pasta, fresh dill pasta, quick fish dinner, easy salmon recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
To create this marvelous dish, gather the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 1/2 pound fresh salmon: Look for fillets with vibrant color and a fresh smell.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the flavors.
- Flour for dredging: This helps create a lovely crust on the salmon.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the salmon, with a touch of healthy fat.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds rich flavor to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Choose either for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed if possible, for that zesty kick.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: To provide a beautiful aromatic base to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: The heart of the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Fresh herbs are key for brightness.
- 4 ounces uncooked pasta: Any type you prefer, like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for added color and flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for a savory finish.
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps. Let’s walk through the process together.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This helps to enhance the flavor of your pasta. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your uncooked pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it reaches al dente, which means it should still be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta, and set it aside.
Step 2: Season and Dredge the Salmon
While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper. Dredge the salmon in flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. The flour will help give the salmon a nice crust when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the pan is hot and the butter has melted, carefully add the seasoned salmon fillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chicken broth (or white wine), lemon juice, and minced garlic. Allow the mixture to bubble for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently to combine the flavors. This step helps to deglaze the pan, infusing the sauce with flavor from the cooked salmon.
Step 5: Add Cream and Dill
Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring it into the bubbling mixture. Add the chopped dill and let it simmer gently. Return the cooked salmon to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as you add it. Cook for a few more minutes until the salmon is heated through, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once your pasta is drained, add it to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Serve immediately. If you like, garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta shines on its own but can also be served with a few delicious sides. Consider pairing it with:
- A crisp garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette, which adds freshness and crunch.
- Garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, to complement the dish.
Each of these additions will elevate your dining experience and create a well-rounded meal.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
Fresh Ingredients: Always strive for fresh ingredients, especially the salmon, herbs, and lemon. Fresh items will enhance the flavors tremendously.
Cook Salmon to Perfection: Keep an eye on your salmon while cooking. Overcooked salmon can become dry, while perfectly seared salmon is juicy and flaky.
Choose the Right Pasta: The type of pasta can alter the dish’s texture. Long, thin pastas work great, but feel free to use what you love.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice according to your preference.
Make it Ahead: If you’re hosting a dinner, you can prepare the sauce in advance and simply reheat it while cooking the pasta, saving time on the day of.
Easy Variations for Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some easy variations you can try:
- Add Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach just before draining the pasta for bright color and added nutrition.
- Creamy Spinach Pesto: Substitute some of the heavy cream with pesto for a different flavor profile.
- Lemon Zest: For extra lemony goodness, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce.
- Swap Proteins: Try using chicken breasts or shrimp instead of salmon for a different twist on the dish.
Storage Tips to Store Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is always a bonus!), here’s how to store the dish properly:
Cool Completely: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container. This will keep the flavors intact and prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerate: Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently: When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help revive the sauce.
Conclusion
Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a delightful, quick, and satisfying dish that can turn any dinner into a gourmet experience. With its creamy sauce, tender salmon, and fresh herbs, this meal is a rhythm of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or bringing joy to a loved one, this recipe is sure to create delicious memories around the table. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and create a plate of pleasure that’s sure to impress!
FAQs About Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen salmon, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This will ensure even cooking.
What pasta shapes work best for this dish?
Any pasta shapes work well, though long noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti tend to hold the sauce nicely.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour for dredging the salmon.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream alternative. Ensure you also use dairy-free butter or oil.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the pasta and sauce separately. Reheat the sauce gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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