Pasta with Salmon and a Zesty Lemon Sauce

A dish combines tender pasta with flaky salmon, all brought to life by a bright and tangy lemon sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Helpful Kitchen Tips

Use fresh lemon juice and zest to get the best bright flavor.
Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Gently cook the salmon to keep it tender and moist, avoiding overcooking.

Ingredients 0/9

1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta 3 tablespoons salted butter, divided 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, chopped, or more to taste 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked 1 large lemon, zested and juiced ½ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley salt and ground black pepper to taste

Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite

This dish combines the rich flavor of salmon with a bright, tangy lemon sauce that feels fresh and light. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. The balance of creamy pasta and zesty citrus creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite, around 11 minutes, stirring now and then to keep it from sticking. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter and oil together in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic next and stir it around for a couple of minutes until it smells amazing. Then, add the salmon and cook it just until it’s warmed through, which should take about 3 minutes. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it straight into the skillet with the salmon and onions. Stir in the parsley and lemon zest, then squeeze in the lemon juice. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, drizzle in the remaining butter and oil, giving everything a good stir until the sauce looks nice and glossy.

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people cooked this recipe

By Daniel Wilson

Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.

How To Serve It Best

Serve this dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to keep the meal light and balanced. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge pairs nicely. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill to add a pop of color and fresh aroma.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the salmon. For best taste, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after reheating.