38g Protein Salmon Pasta without Cream

When it comes to busy weeknights, finding a dinner that’s both quick and delicious can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. Did you know that salmon, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, can enrich your meal in just 45 minutes? Now, imagine a plate of perfectly cooked salmon nestled atop tender pasta, speckled with fresh green beans and kissed with a zesty lemon sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family.

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No-Cream Salmon Pasta: A Family Favorite

Do you often find yourself torn between whipping up something delicious and getting the family to the dinner table on time? Look no further than this salmon pasta without cream! This dish is a star of the show, bringing together simple ingredients and bold flavors in a light, satisfying way. It’s hearty enough to please even the pickiest eaters while keeping the meal light and vibrant—perfect for a family gathering or a quick dinner after work.

What You’ll Need

Here’s the star-studded cast for your easy salmon pasta:

• 4 6-ounce fresh salmon fillets
• 2 teaspoons Morton kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 10 ounces shortcut regular or whole wheat pasta
• 2 cups halved green beans
• 6 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 3 Tablespoons cold salted butter
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1.5 ounces (1/2 cup) Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
• 1/4 cup basil pesto

Let’s Cook

Ready for a delicious dinner? Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Place the salmon fillets on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat each dry and season with salt and pepper. Fill a large pot with water and add about 1 Tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil. (Quick tip: Drying the salmon helps it sear beautifully, forming a mouthwatering crust.)
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the salmon skin-side down for about 5-6 minutes. Flip and sear for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through. (Expert tip: Look for a golden brown finish; it adds an extra layer of flavor!)
3. Remove the salmon and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce to medium heat and add shallots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes. (Tip: Let the shallots soften for maximum sweetness.)
4. Boil the pasta in the salty water for one minute less than package instructions. Add green beans 2-3 minutes before pasta is done. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. (Pro tip: Remember, you want your pasta al dente, which means a slightly firm bite.)
5. In the skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Deglaze with wine and reduce for 5 minutes. (Tip: Scrape up any browned bits for deeper flavor.)
6. Add about 1/2 cup of pasta water and stir to combine. Stir in the cold butter and reduce heat. (Insider tip: This will make your sauce creamy without the cream!)
7. Toss in cooked pasta, green beans, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parmesan. Cook for 1-2 minutes. (Quick note: This is where the magic happens—combine everything for that unforgettable flavor.)
8. Stir in pesto, adding more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. (Pro tip: Taste a little at this stage to adjust seasoning—more salt, lemon, or cheese might be just what it needs!)
9. Serve salmon skin-side up over the pasta with extra lemon wedges.

Healthy Reasons to Love This

Each serving of this fantastic dish boasts approximately:

• Serving size: 1 plate
• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 60g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 5g

Loaded with protein from the salmon and nourishing fiber from the pasta and green beans, this dish is not just tasty—it’s a great boost for your health, supporting heart function and overall well-being.

Perfect Pairings

Serve your salmon pasta with a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice. If you’re feeling festive, pair it with some sparkling water infused with citrus slices. And don’t forget a light, crisp white wine—something like Sauvignon Blanc enhances those flavors beautifully!

How to Store It Right

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten salmon pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to avoid drying out the pasta. Remember, this dish is best enjoyed freshly made, so don’t let those leftovers linger for too long!

Pro Tips

1. Texture Boost: For an extra layer of texture, top the pasta with crispy fried capers before serving.
2. Timing Matters: Cook your pasta at the same time as your salmon to save on overall meal prep time—multitasking is key!
3. Flavorful Finish: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds a lovely richness.
4. Perfect Pasta Water: Remember to reserve that pasta water! It’s liquid gold for creating a luscious sauce.
5. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and add it to the pasta and beans just before serving; perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Flavor Experiments

1. Seasonal Twist: Add roasted cherry tomatoes in the summer for a sweet burst of flavor.
2. Gourmet Variation: For a fancy touch, consider adding a splash of dill cream sauce instead of pesto for an herby flavor profile.
3. Playful Experiment: Try substituting the green beans with asparagus for a slightly different texture and taste.

Lessons from Past Flops

1. Overcooked Salmon: Avoid dry fish by watching closely; it should flake easily but still have a moisture-rich interior.
2. Under-seasoned Pasta: Make sure to add enough salt to your pasta water—under-seasoned pasta can lead to bland dishes.
3. Too Thick Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add pasta water until you reach desired creaminess.
4. Soggy Noodles: Avoid overcooking your pasta; a quick stir while cooking helps maintain heavenly al dente texture.
5. Neglecting Leftovers: Don’t wait too long to eat your leftovers! Pasta can dry out; try to finish it within three days.

What to Do with Leftovers

1. Pasta Salad: Toss leftover pasta with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing lunch.
2. Pasta Bake: Layer leftovers in a baking dish, top with cheese, and heat until bubbly for a comforting meal.
3. Salmon Cakes: Combine any leftover salmon with breadcrumbs and spices to create delicious salmon cakes for lunch.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for an even sear.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is a light pink in the center; use a thermometer to check for 145°F for safety.

Can I substitute the pasta?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta, zoodles, or even quinoa for a healthier option!

Is it possible to make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and just heat it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve—easy peasy!