Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
This Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. This recipe transforms traditional cream-based pasta into a lighter version without sacrificing taste. From weeknight dinners to special gatherings, this meal will impress everyone at your table. Plus, it is packed with nutrients, ensuring you enjoy every bite guilt-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: This dish uses milk and cornstarch instead of heavy cream, making it a lower-calorie option.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a homemade meal in under 30 minutes!
- Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic create an explosion of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or alongside a light salad for a complete dining experience.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy pasta, making dinner time more enjoyable for everyone.
Tools and Preparation
To make the cooking process seamless, gather your essential tools before starting. Having everything on hand will help you create this delicious dish effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick pan: Helps prevent the salmon from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping the salmon and mixing ingredients without damaging them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent results.
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
For the Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cup spinach (fresh & chopped)
- 1 cup tomatoes (cherry, sliced in half)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
For Seasoning
- 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 the 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 your pan is ready:
1. Add olive oil to the pan.
2. Place the salmon portions into the pan skin-side down.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
After removing salmon from the pan:
1. In the same pan, add butter.
2. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes; cook until spinach wilts.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture into the pan with vegetables.
3. Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; let simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Finally:
1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture.
2. Gently fold in cooked salmon pieces until well combined.
Now your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is ready to serve! Enjoy this satisfying meal that balances healthiness with rich flavor!
How to Serve Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Classic romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese drizzled with Caesar dressing.
Add Extra Toppings
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
- Lemon Zest: A pinch of lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the dish’s freshness.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
- Focaccia: Soft and flavorful focaccia can be great for dipping into the sauce.
Opt for Wine Pairing
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass complements the creamy texture of the salmon pasta beautifully.
- Pinot Grigio: This crisp white wine balances the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
To ensure your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Cook Salmon Gently: Avoid overcooking by monitoring the salmon closely; it should flake easily when done.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; don’t hesitate to tweak salt and pepper based on your preference.
- Mix Sauce Well: Ensure the milk and cornstarch mixture is smooth before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- Opt for Whole Wheat Pasta: For added fiber and nutrients, choose whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta options.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Complement your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta with these delicious side dishes that elevate the meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus seasoned with lemon complements the dish well.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil adds color and flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with cucumbers, peppers, and herbs provides a healthy grain option.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil can serve as a low-carb alternative.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls on skewers make a refreshing addition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of salmon: Opt for fresh or frozen salmon instead of canned. This ensures better flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the salmon: Cook the salmon just until it flakes easily. Overcooked salmon can become dry and lose its deliciousness.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish adequately. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing flavors.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
- Cooking pasta incorrectly: Make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking pasta al dente. Undercooked pasta holds up better in the dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta that you may find helpful.
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk and skip the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
While we recommend Barilla protein pasta, any type of pasta such as fettuccine or penne will complement this dish well.
Is Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children. You can adjust seasonings as desired.
Final Thoughts
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables or using different proteins. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta, a perfect blend of creamy goodness and nutritious ingredients. This recipe reimagines classic pasta dishes by replacing heavy cream with a lighter milk-based sauce, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt. With fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender salmon, this dish boasts vibrant colors and rich flavors that will impress your family or guests. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions, this creamy salmon pasta is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 24 oz salmon (cut into 4 portions)
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta of choice (Barilla protein recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Cut salmon into four portions and cook in olive oil for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove salmon and sauté garlic in butter; add spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes until spinach wilts.
- Whisk milk with cornstarch until smooth; add to the pan with veggies along with parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine cooked pasta with sauce and gently fold in salmon pieces before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
