Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
This Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. With its creamy texture, you might not believe it’s a healthy option. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta recipe features fresh ingredients and a clever technique to create creaminess without using heavy cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with salmon, spinach, and tomatoes, this dish offers essential nutrients while being low in calories.
- Creamy Without the Guilt: The use of milk and cornstarch creates a rich sauce without adding extra fat.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it at gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Experience the tastes of Italy with this delicious blend of ingredients that bring vibrant flavors to your plate.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while cooking the salmon.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients without damaging your countertops.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
This Tuscan Salmon Pasta is so creamy and delicious, you would never believe it is also healthy. We use a special trick so this salmon pasta recipe uses no cream!
For the Salmon
- 24 oz salmon (cut into 4 portions)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
For the Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cup spinach (fresh & chopped)
- 1 cup tomatoes (cherry, sliced in half)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
For Seasoning
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated)
- 1 tsp salt (pink himalayan)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (ground)
For the Pasta
- 1 serving pasta (Barilla protein +)
How to Make Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
First, preheat a nonstick pan on medium heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the pan is heating:
1. Cut your large 12 oz salmon portions in half so it makes 4 servings.
This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Enjoy crafting this delightful Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta!
How to Serve Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
This Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is perfect for a delightful dinner. It can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the table.
Individual Bowls
- Dish out the pasta into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. Top each bowl with extra parmesan for added flavor.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with fresh basil or parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and taste.
Pair with Lemon Wedges
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
With Crusty Bread
- Place some crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
How to Perfect Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
To make your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta even better, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and tomatoes will elevate your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving to ensure it suits your palate.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta al dente ensures it has a firm bite and holds up well against the creamy sauce.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with homemade Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a tasty contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a delicious caramelized flavor that pairs well with salmon.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits to your plate.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light salad packed with nutrients that complements the main dish wonderfully.
- Zucchini Noodles: For an extra veggie boost, serve zoodles alongside your salmon pasta for a low-carb option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the seasoning – Not using enough salt and pepper might leave your dish bland. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Overcooking the salmon – Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s flaky; remember that it continues cooking after being removed from heat.
- Neglecting the pasta water – Forgetting to save some pasta water can impact the creaminess of your sauce. Reserve a cup before draining to enhance the texture.
- Using low-quality ingredients – Low-quality cheese or tomatoes can affect flavor. Invest in fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Rushing the process – Cooking too quickly can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients. Take your time, especially when sautéing garlic and vegetables to develop flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta that may help clarify your cooking experience.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure you thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta works best with Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta?
Any pasta works well, but we recommend protein-rich options like Barilla protein+ for added nutrition.
Can I add vegetables other than spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free version, such as chickpea or lentil-based pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
Final Thoughts
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or altering seasonings. This dish is sure to impress family and friends while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Give it a try!
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta, a dish that masterfully combines taste and nutrition. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. With fresh ingredients like salmon, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, this pasta dish delivers essential nutrients without sacrificing creaminess. Our clever technique uses milk and cornstarch instead of heavy cream, creating a rich sauce that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with family or impressing guests at a gathering, this pasta is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 24 oz salmon (cut into 4 portions)
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your choice of pasta (recommended: Barilla protein+)
Instructions
- Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Cut salmon into four portions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth.
- Melt butter in the heated pan, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes; cook until spinach is wilted.
- Pour in the milk mixture and stir until it thickens slightly.
- Cook salmon in the pan for about 4-5 minutes per side or until flaky.
- Combine with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 625mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
