If you're craving a dish that tantalizes your taste buds and transports you straight to the heart of Louisiana, look no further than this mouthwatering Cajun Pasta with Salmon! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a rich Cajun cream sauce, paired with perfectly cooked salmon that flakes apart with a fork. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. You will need 8 oz of pasta, 2 salmon fillets, 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the salmon. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
- Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Allow the cream to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the pasta, being careful not to break it up too much.
- Serve the Cajun pasta with salmon immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using fettuccine or penne for the best texture and sauce adherence.
- Perfectly Cooked Salmon: For the best results, use fresh salmon fillets. Cooking them skin-side down helps to keep them moist and flavorful. Don’t overcook; they should flake easily but still be juicy.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend. You can always add more spice later!
- Cream Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This also helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese before serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor!
- Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Cook the pasta and salmon ahead of time, and combine them with the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the pasta and salmon.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 597kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 118mg
