Salmon and Broccoli Pasta

Creamy, comforting, and packed with nutritious ingredients, this Salmon and Broccoli Pasta is a wholesome one-pan meal that brings together tender flakes of salmon, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a light garlic cream sauce. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for a special dinner—plus, it’s packed with protein, omega-3s, and fiber. A win-win for both flavor and health!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Wonder – Cook it all in one pot for easy prep and clean-up.
Balanced & Nutritious – Lean salmon, fiber-rich broccoli, and satisfying pasta make a well-rounded meal.
Ready in 30 Minutes – Perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste.
Creamy Without the Heaviness – A light sauce that doesn’t weigh the dish down.
Family-Friendly – Mild, comforting flavors everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta Dish:
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well)
2 cups broccoli florets
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Juice of ½ lemon (for serving)

For the Light Cream Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:
Extra Parmesan for topping
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need
Large pot for pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Strainer
Tongs or spatula
Zester and juicer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. In the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.
4. Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Cook salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 145°F).
4. Remove from heat, flake into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a light roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and broth until smooth.
5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
3. Gently fold in flaked salmon and lemon zest.
4. Heat for 1–2 minutes just to warm everything through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Spoon into bowls and top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.
2. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a wedge on the side.

Tips for the Best Salmon and Broccoli Pasta
Use Fresh Salmon – It adds the best flavor and flakes beautifully into the pasta.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Just a few minutes in the boiling water keeps it vibrant and crisp.
Add Pasta Water Slowly – It helps the sauce cling to the pasta without becoming watery.
Customize It – Add mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair.
Lighten It Up – Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter cream sauce option.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Pair with sparkling water or lemon-infused iced tea.
Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
Add a side of roasted vegetables for more volume and nutrients.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or broth.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned salmon?
   Yes! Just drain well and flake into the sauce during the final step. It’s a great shortcut.
2. What’s the best pasta to use?
   Short pasta like penne or fusilli works well, but linguine or fettuccine is also great.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour for the roux.
4. Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
   Yes, use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese substitutes. The texture may vary slightly.
5. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce may separate when frozen and thawed.

Final Thoughts
This Salmon and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate combination of creamy, hearty, and fresh. It’s loaded with nutrients, rich in flavor, and comes together in under 30 minutes—making it a perfect go-to for busy nights or relaxed dinners. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish brings comfort and elegance to the table.

Give it a try and share your plate online—I’d love to see how you make it your own!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American with Mediterranean Influence

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 29g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 350mg

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