Salmon Pasta Skillet
A flavorful salmon pasta skillet featuring tender pasta, vegetables, and creamy chive cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, bring chicken broth to boiling.
- Add pasta and vegetables.
- Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in cream cheese until combined.
- Stir in milk, Parmesan cheese, basil, and a dash of pepper.
- Gently stir in salmon.
- Cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra package of cream cheese. You can substitute the corkscrew macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. If you want a healthier version, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a nice touch. It also pairs beautifully with Mary'S Yummy Rice for a delightful side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Pasta Skillet contains roughly 593 calories, with 28g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used! Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring they are tender by the time the pasta is done. Broccoli, bell peppers, or peas work great in this dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the corkscrew macaroni with a gluten-free pasta option. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta that will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best results.
Can I add more protein to this dish?
Certainly! You can include cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to boost the protein content. Just stir them in when you add the salmon to ensure they are heated through without overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).