Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Pasta: Delicious & Easy

Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the tangy freshness of lemon and the creaminess of butter. This recipe is perfect for those who love seafood and pasta and want a quick yet impressive meal. With its origins in Mediterranean cuisine, this dish brings together simple ingredients that create a symphony of flavors, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces of pasta (linguine or fettuccine works best)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
• 1/4 cup heavy cream for added richness (for those who prefer a creamy texture)
• Zest of 1 lemon for extra citrus flavor

Instructions

Preparing the Salmon

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
4. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: While the salmon is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and, if desired, the heavy cream.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. If using, add the red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Assembling the Dish

1. Plate the Pasta: Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
2. Top with Salmon: Place a baked salmon fillet on top of each serving of pasta.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Salmon Baking Tips: For a moister salmon, consider covering the fillets with foil during the first half of the baking time. This can help retain moisture.
• No-Cream Version: To make this dish without cream, simply omit the heavy cream in the sauce. The butter and lemon will still provide a deliciously rich flavor.
• Substitute Proteins: If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with chicken or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as dill or thyme, which pair wonderfully with salmon.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Pasta is a beautifully balanced dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. The creamy, tangy pasta complements the rich, flaky salmon perfectly, making it a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, offering plenty of room for creativity and personal touches.