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Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta

Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta
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Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner combining tender Cajun-seasoned salmon with a rich, velvety cream sauce that perfectly coats your choice of pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish balances bold spices, creamy texture, and fresh herbs for a satisfying, protein-packed meal ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 2 fresh salmon fillets (skin removed, about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, dried herbs)

Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, linguine, penne, or similar)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry and rub each side generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté chopped garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese and simmer gently until sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Finish with Salmon and Herbs: Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold into the pasta. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Squeeze lemon juice over the top if using, and toss lightly before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • Use fresh Cajun seasoning for brighter, more vibrant spice.
  • Simmer the cream sauce gently to avoid curdling.
  • Add Parmesan cheese gradually for a smooth sauce texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta, Cajun Salmon Pasta, Creamy Salmon Pasta, Seafood Pasta, Quick Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Spicy Salmon Pasta, Cajun Seafood

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/creamy-cajun-salmon-pasta/