When you’re in the mood for something elegant yet incredibly easy, this Salmon Linguine hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect blend of tender, flaky salmon with silky pasta, all tossed in a light, creamy sauce that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something a little fancy on a weeknight, this dish delivers. Ready to cook up something delicious?

Table of Contents:
Total Time: 25 min
Prep Time: 25 min
Makes: 5 servings
Tools for this recipe:
Salmon Linguine recipe video:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Linguine(Pasta)
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the linguine and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need it to loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
As the pasta cooks, warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Meanwhile, sprinkle the salmon fillets with salt and pepper to season them. Place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if it has skin, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Take the salmon out of the skillet and set it aside. Once it’s cool enough to touch, break it into bite-sized pieces.



Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the rest of the olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and the shallots are soft, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be just golden.


Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Add the white wine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces by half, concentrating the flavor.



Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the cream to warm up and thicken slightly. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt smoothly into the sauce.



Step 6: Add Lemon and Dill
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill. These ingredients add a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the rich cream and salmon. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
Step 7: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until every strand is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.


Step 8: Add the Salmon
Gently fold the flaked salmon into the pasta, being careful not to break it up too much. You want to have those lovely, tender chunks of salmon throughout the dish.


Step 9: Serve
Divide the Salmon Linguine among plates or bowls. Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
Step 10: Enjoy
Serve immediately and savor each bite of this creamy, flavorful dish. Serve it alongside a crisp white wine or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.


Tips:
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon will give you the best flavor, but you can also use smoked salmon for a different twist.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit less creamy.
- Leftovers: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
This Salmon Linguine is a dish that’s sure to impress, yet it’s simple enough to make any night of the week. The combination of tender pasta, rich salmon, and a zesty cream sauce is one you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy your meal.
Nutrition Information:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
Calories | 550-600 kcal |
Total Fat | 30-35g |
– Saturated Fat | 15-20g |
Cholesterol | 100-120mg |
Sodium | 700-800mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 50-55g |
– Dietary Fiber | 2-4g |
– Sugars | 2-4g |
Protein | 25-30g |
Vitamin A | 10-15% DV |
Vitamin C | 20-25% DV |
Calcium | 20-25% DV |
Iron | 8-10% DV |
Salmon Linguine Health Benefits:
- High-Quality Protein: Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids that support cardiovascular health.
- Rich in Vitamin D: Essential for bone health and immune system support, vitamin D is abundant in salmon.
- Boosts Brain Health: Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients in salmon contribute to improved brain function and cognitive health.
- Improves Skin Health: The healthy fats in salmon help keep your skin hydrated and can reduce inflammation.
- Supports Digestive Health: Whole grain linguine adds fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
- Bone Strength: Calcium and vitamin D from the cheese and salmon support strong bones and prevent bone-related disorders.
- Antioxidant Rich: Lemon zest and fresh dill are high in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
- Enhances Metabolism: The B vitamins in salmon help convert food into energy, supporting a healthy metabolism.
- Anti-Inflammatory: The combination of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants in this dish can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing as the cream sauce may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat and Reuse Instructions:
- Stove Reheating: Place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce as it heats. Stir gently until warmed through.
- Microwave Reheating: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a bit of cream or broth if the sauce needs thinning.
- Reinvention Idea: Use leftover Salmon Linguine as a base for a creamy salmon casserole. Mix with some extra vegetables and top with breadcrumbs before baking until golden and bubbly.
Enjoy your Salmon Linguine-an elegant and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
FAQ’s
Q. How do you cook salmon for linguine?
To cook salmon for linguine, season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Pan-sear it in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for about 4-5 minutes per side, or bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, until it’s flaky and cooked through.
Q. What kind of sauce works best with salmon linguine?
A light, creamy sauce works wonderfully with salmon linguine. Try making a lemon cream sauce with garlic, heavy cream, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of dill or parsley. A white wine sauce with capers is also a great option.
Q. Can you use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat, it dries to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Q. How do you avoid overcooking the salmon in linguine?
To avoid overcooking, monitor the salmon closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork. If you’re combining it with pasta, add the salmon at the end to just warm through, rather than cooking it further.
Q. Can you make salmon linguine ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the salmon fresh. Store the pasta and sauce separately in the refrigerator, then reheat and add the salmon just before serving.
Q. What side dishes go well with salmon linguine?
Salmon linguine pairs nicely with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.