Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
This Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that offers a creamy texture and rich flavor without the guilt of heavy cream. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines fresh ingredients for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With its vibrant colors and aromatic herbs, this pasta will impress your family and friends while keeping your health goals in check.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy without the Guilt: This recipe achieves its creamy texture using milk and cornstarch instead of heavy cream, making it a healthier option.
- Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a delicious meal in just 25 minutes.
- Packed with Nutrients: Featuring salmon, spinach, and tomatoes, this dish provides essential vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids for a balanced diet.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings, this salmon pasta fits any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly Flavor: The mild taste of salmon paired with creamy sauce makes it appealing to both adults and children.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup while cooking the salmon to perfection.
- Knife: Essential for cutting the salmon portions evenly for even cooking.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables like spinach and tomatoes.
Ingredients
This Tuscan Salmon Pasta is so creamy and delicious, you would never believe it is also healthy. We use a special trick so this salmon pasta recipe uses no cream!
For the Salmon
- 24 oz salmon (cut into 4 portions)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
For the Vegetables
- 2 cup spinach (fresh & chopped)
- 1 cup tomatoes (cherry, sliced in half)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
For the Garnish
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated)
- 1 tsp salt (pink himalayan)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (ground)
For the Pasta
- 1 serving pasta (Barilla protein +)
How to Make Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
First, pre-heat a nonstick pan on medium heat.
Step 2: Prepare Your Salmon
While the pan is heating, cut your large 12oz salmon portions in half so it makes 4 servings.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Once heated, add olive oil to the pan. Place each salmon portion skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In the same pan, add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add chopped spinach; cook until wilted.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the pan with sautéed garlic and spinach. Stir continuously until thickened.
Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Cheese
Mix in cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Finally, add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture. Toss everything gently until well coated.
Now your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful dish that brings together healthiness with delightful taste.
How to Serve Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Serving Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta can be a delightful experience. This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on the plate. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Plated with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with Basil: Adding fresh basil leaves on top provides a burst of flavor and color.
- Sprinkle of Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh and vibrant look.
Accompanied by Lemon Wedges
- Citrus Zest: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of freshness to their pasta.
Paired with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Loaf: A slice of warm sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These add crunch and complement the creamy texture of the pasta.
With a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing pair well with the Tuscan flavors.
How to Perfect Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions for making your pasta even better.
- seasoning: Use salt and pepper generously while cooking salmon for maximum flavor.
- Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Pasta al dente: Cook pasta until just firm; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Cornstarch trick: Mix cornstarch with milk beforehand to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without cream.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted with garlic complements the flavors of the pasta beautifully.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with salmon.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light, spiralized zucchini adds a fun twist while keeping it healthy.
- Risotto Primavera: Creamy risotto with seasonal vegetables enhances your Italian dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
- Overcooking the salmon: This can make your fish dry and tough. Cook until just flaky for the best texture.
- Ignoring pasta timing: Cooking pasta too long results in mushy noodles. Check the package instructions and taste test for doneness.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Neglecting to prepare ingredients first: Failing to chop veggies and measure ingredients before starting can slow you down. Prep everything ahead for a smoother cooking process.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
Freezing Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 1 month. Label with the date.
Reheating Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta.
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes! You can substitute other fish like trout or cod, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other favorites like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This creamy salmon pasta goes well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a guilt-free culinary delight that combines the rich flavors of salmon with vibrant vegetables in a creamy sauce, all without heavy cream. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. With fresh spinach, tomatoes, and a hint of garlic, this pasta is not only visually appealing but also packed with essential nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe guarantees to impress while aligning with your health goals.
Ingredients
- 24 oz salmon (cut into 4 portions)
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 serving Barilla protein pasta
Instructions
- Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Cut salmon into four equal portions and season as desired.
- Add olive oil to the pan and cook salmon skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Whisk milk and cornstarch together in a bowl; pour into the pan with the spinach mixture. Stir until thickened.
- Add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated, then serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
