Easy Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon

If you’re craving a dish that feels both indulgent and light, the Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon is your new go-to. This recipe combines tender salmon, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and a bright splash of lemon to create a harmonious flavor explosion. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet flavorful: Every ingredient plays a key role in delivering a balanced taste with minimal fuss.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with omega-3 rich salmon and fresh ingredients, it’s both nourishing and filling.
• Quick cooking time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it makes an ideal weeknight dinner to whip up fast.
• Colorful and inviting: The sun-dried tomatoes and lemon zest add beautiful pops of color that make the dish feel special.
• Flexible for dietary tweaks: Easy to customize with different pastas or extra veggies to suit your needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of fresh, approachable ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element enhances the dish’s flavor, texture, or appearance, making for a perfect balance in every bite.

• Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, skin-on salmon for moist, flavorful chunks that flake nicely.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Their intense, slightly sweet flavor complements salmon and adds depth.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the entire dish with a citrusy zing.
• Pasta: Use your favorite type—penne or linguine works beautifully for coating in the sauce.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
• Olive oil: Use good-quality extra virgin for rich flavor and smooth texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the pasta.
• Fresh herbs (basil or parsley): For freshness and a pop of green.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.

Variations for Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon

One of the best parts about the Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon is how easy it is to make your own. Whether swapping ingredients to suit your diet or experimenting with flavors, customizing this dish is a breeze.

• Swap pasta types: Try gluten-free or whole grain pasta for different textures and nutritional boosts.
• Add leafy greens: Toss in spinach or kale for extra vitamins and color.
• Use smoked salmon: For a smoky twist if you want a faster, no-cook alternative.
• Incorporate cream or coconut milk: Make a creamy sauce by adding a splash for extra indulgence.
• Include chili flakes: Add heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes to spice things up.

this …

How to Make Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your choice of pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the salmon

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then cook skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in fresh lemon juice and zest, then stir in some reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and finish

Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it well with the lemon-tomato sauce. Flake salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently mix into the pasta. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs on top before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon

• Use fresh lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest elevate flavors more than bottled versions.
• Don’t overcook salmon: Slightly undercooked salmon will finish cooking in the sauce, keeping it tender and moist.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce and adds silky texture.
• Choose quality sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed tomatoes offer richer flavor and tenderness compared to dried-only versions.
• Toast garlic gently: To avoid bitterness, keep garlic on low-medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden.

How to Serve Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon

Garnishes

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note, a scattering of grated Parmesan for savory richness, and optional lemon wedges for guests who love extra citrus punch.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, adding complementary textures and balancing flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for gloss, and add a few sun-dried tomato halves on top for visual effect. For dinner parties, garnish each plate with microgreens to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the dish even more enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze the salmon pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat on low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the salmon from drying out. Stir frequently for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw it properly in the fridge beforehand and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The recipe can be gluten-free if you use pasta made from gluten-free grains like brown rice or quinoa.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes work well for a tangy, sweet flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

How can I add more vegetables to this pasta?

Try mixing in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or even peas during the final step to boost the vegetable content.

Final Thoughts

For a meal that feels both special and wholesome, the Salmon Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Lemon hits all the right notes. Quick, fresh, and packed with bright flavors, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites for any night of the week. Give it a try and let the combination of tender salmon and zesty lemon brighten your dinner table.

Related Posts

• Why Baked Mississippi Chicken Is Perfect Tonight
• How to Make Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken
• How to Make Creamy Sausage Pasta Fast

Print