Salmon Pasta
A flavorful salmon pasta with briny olives, capers, fresh parsley, and lemon, perfect for a quick, elegant meal that highlights delicate fish and vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the salmon into 1/4-inch pieces.
- Peel and chop the lemon, removing all white pith.
- Pit and coarsely chop the olives.
- Saute the salmon in hot olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Add garlic, lemon, olives, and capers to the pan.
- Reduce heat and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring the salmon does not overcook.
- While the fish is cooking, cook the egg noodles al dente.
- Drain the pasta.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the fish mixture.
- Add chopped parsley and toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Garnish with freshly ground pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the salmon with grilled shrimp or chicken for a different protein option. If you don't have Calamata olives, green olives can work in a pinch. When cooking the salmon, ensure the heat is medium to avoid overcooking, as it can dry out quickly. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also be added for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salmon pasta dish pairs beautifully with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors perfectly. For those seeking more Mediterranean recipes, consider adding a side of tzatziki for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover salmon pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Pasta contains roughly 1493 calories, with 21g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1659mg per serving (72% 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 frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can place it in the refrigerator overnight or run it under cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, follow the recipe as directed for the best results.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter alternative. Whole wheat pasta is another healthy substitute that maintains a similar texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose for optimal doneness.
How do I know when the salmon is properly cooked?
The salmon is properly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should appear opaque and not translucent. Keep a close eye on it as it cooks, especially since it can continue to cook after being removed from the heat.
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).