Creamy Salmon Tagliatelle is a luxurious yet simple pasta dish that features silky ribbons of tagliatelle tossed in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce with tender salmon cubes, a hint of chili, and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect combination of indulgence and balance — ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy, elegant meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. The creamy sauce is comforting without being too heavy, and the tender salmon adds a satisfying protein component without overpowering the delicate pasta. The addition of chili flakes gives the sauce a subtle warmth, while the fresh parsley brightens each bite. It’s a fast, flavorful, and beautiful meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- tagliatelle pasta
- salmon fillet, cubed
- olive oil
- garlic cloves, minced
- heavy cream
- grated parmesan
- chili flakes
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Cook the tagliatelle in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed salmon and sear for 2–3 minutes until golden on the outside and just cooked through. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the grated parmesan, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained tagliatelle and toss gently to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Return the salmon to the pan and toss gently to combine without breaking up the fish too much.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
Variations
- Lemon Zest Finish: Add lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Spinach or Peas: Stir in baby spinach or green peas for added color and nutrition.
- Smoked Salmon: Use smoked salmon instead of fresh for a deeper, more intense flavor.
- Herb Mix: Add dill or chives alongside parsley for extra brightness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream and vegan parmesan alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for best texture, especially with the salmon.
FAQs
What type of salmon works best?
Use fresh, skinless salmon fillet. Atlantic or wild-caught varieties both work well.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti can be used in place of tagliatelle.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling after adding dairy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance for quick assembly.
Is this dish very spicy?
The chili flakes add mild heat. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
What wine pairs well with this?
A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and salmon.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be lighter. You may need to reduce it slightly longer for thickness.
What can I serve with this?
Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Salmon Tagliatelle is a deliciously simple yet sophisticated dish that brings together silky pasta, rich cream sauce, and tender bites of salmon with just the right touch of heat. It’s quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for any occasion — whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a flavorful, homemade dinner.
PrintCreamy Salmon Tagliatelle
Silky tagliatelle tossed in a creamy, garlic-kissed sauce with tender salmon bites, herbs, and a touch of chili — simple, rich, and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 200g tagliatelle pasta
- 200g salmon fillet, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook tagliatelle in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear salmon cubes until golden and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in grated parmesan, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and reserved water to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in the seared salmon.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use skinless salmon fillet for easier searing and mixing.
- Adjust creaminess by adding more cream or pasta water as needed.
- Top with extra chili flakes or lemon zest for added brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg