Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine recommended)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Salmon:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
   • Place the salmon in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Once slightly cooled, break the salmon into chunks.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Salmon:
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
   • Gently fold in the cooked salmon chunks.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
   • Serve immediately, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish!

Let me know if you need any adjustments or have specific dietary preferences!