This Garlic Salmon Linguine is a deliciously simple dish, combining tender salmon with a garlicky, buttery sauce over linguine. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
Author: Siddhanath Metari Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Table of Contents
Tools for this recipe:
Garlic Salmon Linguine Recipe Video:
Credit: The Cooking Jar
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 salmon fillets (skin on or off, about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Half a cup of dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
- Fill a large pot with water, adding salt, and bring it to a boil. Introduce the linguine and cook it in accordance with the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.
- Set aside 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguine.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the salmon fillets.
- Put the salmon in the skillet, skin-side down if it has skin, and let it cook for 4-5 minutes on that side. Then, flip it over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Take the salmon out of the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- In the same pan, pour in the last tablespoon of olive oil. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook the garlic until it becomes aromatic, which should take around 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- Combine the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if you’re adding them), and butter. Let the butter melt into the sauce, creating a silky, flavorful base.
Step 6: Combine the Linguine
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the sauce. If the sauce appears to be too thick, just add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 7: Add the Salmon
- Break the cooked salmon into sizable pieces and carefully mix it into the linguine. Sample the dish and tweak the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as necessary.
Step 8: Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Tips:
- Salmon Options: Use fresh or frozen salmon; just make sure it’s fully thawed if frozen.
- Pasta Substitutes: Swap linguine for spaghetti, fettuccine, or even angel hair pasta.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with a vegan alternative or additional olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese.
- Storage: Keep your leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out.
This Garlic Salmon Linguine is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s both hearty and light—perfect for any occasion.
Nutrition Information:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
Calories | 530 kcal |
Total Fat | 25 g |
Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugars | 2 g |
Protein | 32 g |
Sodium | 480 mg |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1,200 mg |
Vitamin D | 50% of Daily Value |
Health Benefits of Garlic Salmon Linguine:
- Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Boosts Immunity: Garlic contains allicin, known for its immune-boosting properties.
- Rich in Protein: Salmon and Parmesan cheese provide essential amino acids for muscle growth.
- Bone Strength: Parmesan and butter offer calcium and Vitamin D.
- Brain Support: Omega-3s help improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog.
- Skin Health: Antioxidants in salmon and parsley promote glowing, healthy skin.
- Digestive Aid: Lemon juice and garlic stimulate digestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Olive oil and salmon are packed with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Energy Boost: Carbohydrates in linguine provide a steady energy source.
- Supports Weight Management: High-protein and nutrient-dense, this dish keeps you full longer.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the delicate texture of salmon and pasta.
Reheat & Reuse Instructions:
Reheating:
- Heat in a skillet on low, adding a splash of chicken broth, white wine, or water to prevent drying.
- Microwave on medium power, covered, stirring halfway for even reheating.
Reuse Ideas:
- Pasta Salad: Toss cold leftovers with arugula or spinach for a refreshing salad.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use as a filling for bell peppers and bake until warm.
- Light Casserole: Layer with extra Parmesan and bake for a creamy pasta bake.
- Salmon Toast: Use leftover salmon pieces as a topping for avocado toast.
This Garlic Salmon Linguine is a versatile, flavorful recipe that combines elegance and comfort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
FAQ’s
Q. How do you make garlic salmon linguine?
Cook linguine until al dente and set aside. Sear salmon fillets seasoned with salt and pepper in a skillet until cooked through. In the same pan, sauté garlic in butter, add cream, Parmesan, and lemon juice to make a sauce. Flake the salmon, toss it with the sauce and linguine, and serve.
Q. Can I use canned salmon for garlic salmon linguine?
Yes, canned salmon works as a quick and budget-friendly substitute. Just drain it and gently fold it into the sauce after it’s prepared.
Q. What vegetables go well with garlic salmon linguine?
Spinach, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini make excellent additions, adding color and freshness to the dish.
Q. Can I make garlic salmon linguine dairy-free?
Absolutely, substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of heavy cream. Omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
Q. How do I prevent the salmon from overcooking?
Sear the salmon fillets for 3–4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, and remove them from the pan once they’re just cooked through. They’ll stay tender and won’t dry out.
Q. Can I make garlic salmon linguine ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon ahead. Store them separately and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked linguine. Add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Q. Does garlic go well with salmon?
When you add butter and a heap of garlic, pan-seared salmon goes from wonderful to wow.