Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta is the perfect choice, if you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. Combining tender, flaky salmon with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, this dish is a great way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, date night, or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to impress!
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this dish perfectly—ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and variations to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
✔️ Rich & Creamy – The combination of cream and tomato creates a luxurious sauce.
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Garlic, onions, and herbs enhance the taste.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully for leftovers.
✔️ Nutritious & Satisfying – Loaded with omega-3-rich salmon and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciously creamy pasta dish:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (skinless, boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for extra flavor)
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup (250ml) crushed tomatoes or passata
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (or double cream)
- ¼ cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
- Salt (for boiling water)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Salmon
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the salmon in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the salmon from the pan, let it rest for a minute, then flake it into bite-sized pieces using a fork. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
- In the same pan used for the salmon, melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add red pepper flakes (if using) and stir well.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat.
- Stir in the flaked salmon, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, comforting salmon pasta!
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta
✔️ Use Fresh Salmon – It adds the best texture and flavor, but canned salmon can be a quick substitute.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Salmon – It should be just cooked through to stay tender.
✔️ Reserve Pasta Water – Helps create a smooth and silky sauce.
✔️ Choose High-Quality Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the creamy texture.
✔️ Adjust the Spice Level – Add more red pepper flakes for heat or omit them for a milder dish.
Variations & Substitutions
🌿 Make It Healthier – Use whole wheat pasta and substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Add shredded mozzarella for an even creamier texture.
🐟 Swap the Salmon – Try shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a different protein option.
🍅 Richer Tomato Flavor – Add a spoonful of tomato paste for a deeper taste.
🥬 Add Vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers make great additions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Canned Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Simply drain the canned salmon and flake it into the sauce. However, fresh salmon gives a better texture.
What Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?
Penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, or tagliatelle work well. Choose a pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce.
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I Freeze This Pasta?
Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove while stirring frequently.
Final
This Creamy Tomato Salmon Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish packed with flavor. The combination of tender salmon, rich tomato sauce, and creamy texture makes it an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Happy cooking!
