Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts in Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a delightful and nutritious dinner that feels both gourmet and comforting, Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts fits the bill perfectly. This mouthwatering dish combines tender pasta, flaky salmon, and crisp Brussels sprouts all coated in a luscious creamy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make but impressively satisfying, perfect for weeknights or subtle entertaining. Let’s dive into this savory recipe that brings healthy ingredients together in a truly unforgettable way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor Profile: The rich creaminess complements the natural sweetness of salmon and the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this recipe is nourishing without sacrificing taste.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious fast.
• Impressively Versatile: Great as a family meal or a stylish dinner for guests, adapting well to tweaks and preferences.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Combines familiar pasta comfort with exciting new vegetable and seafood pairings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tender pasta forming the comforting base, to the vibrant Brussels sprouts adding texture, and the delicate salmon delivering savory richness. These ingredients come together to create a palette of colors and flavors that look as good as they taste.

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skinless salmon provides a flaky, flavorful protein.
• Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine or linguine hold the creamy sauce beautifully while offering a lovely bite.
• Brussels Sprouts: Halved and sautéed for a crisp-tender texture that balances the dish.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the silky sauce binding the pasta, salmon, and veggies.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant depth and slight pungency that enhances all other flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for a sharp, nutty finish to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a fruity undertone.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: Brightens the dish and cuts through the creaminess for balance.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to tie everything together.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): Parsley or dill add fresh herbal notes that lift the whole dish.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you customize Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts to suit your taste buds, dietary needs, or available pantry staples. Whether you want to swap proteins, experiment with sauces, or adjust textures, here are some easy-to-follow variation ideas.

• Swap Protein: Use shrimp or chicken instead of salmon for a different but equally tasty protein source.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for some heat.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, spinach, or peas to boost the veggie content and add new flavors.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Easily swap your pasta to fit dietary preferences without losing texture.

How to Make Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming and halving your Brussels sprouts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the sprouts until they become tender and develop a light golden-brown color, about 6–8 minutes. Set them aside once they’re ready.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the Brussels sprouts cook, boil salted water in a large pot. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and gently place the salmon fillets skinless side down (if any skin remains). Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Remove the salmon and set it aside, breaking it into large chunks once slightly cooled.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the skillet used for the salmon, reduce heat to low and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Add grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and juice. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the Brussels sprouts and salmon chunks to the skillet, folding gently into the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together and adding pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta smoothly. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if using, then serve hot for an indulgent, balanced meal.

Pro Tips for Making Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts

• Perfect Pasta Texture: Always cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness once combined with the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook Salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon to prevent it from drying out; it should flake easily but remain moist.
• Save Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling perfectly to the noodles.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs brighten the flavors better than dried alternatives.
• Low and Slow for Sauce: Keeping the heat moderate prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a silky finish.

How to Serve Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley or dill adds color, aroma, and an extra layer of flavor that makes each bite more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or garlic bread for added texture contrasts and to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, plate the pasta in individual nests topped with a salmon chunk and Brussels sprout halves, then drizzle extra sauce artistically around the edges.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor intensity.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can freeze cooked salmon and Brussels sprouts separately from pasta and sauce for up to 3 months for convenience.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or milk to restore sauce creaminess without drying the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well; just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to get the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t like Brussels sprouts?

You can substitute Brussels sprouts with broccoli florets, asparagus, or green beans for a similar crunch and freshness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, by using gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta without altering the delicious taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To veganize this dish, replace salmon with smoked tofu or tempeh, and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry while stirring.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts is a scrumptious combination of healthy ingredients that doesn’t compromise on taste or ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the harmony of creamy sauce, tender salmon, and luscious Brussels sprouts in every bite!

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