Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Enjoy restaurant-quality Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta at home. This recipe combines tender salmon with rotini pasta and a rich tomato basil sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its fresh flavors and creamy texture will impress your family and friends, delivering a delightful culinary experience every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and creamy sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have in the pantry.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild taste and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this elegant dish to guests for a dinner party that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and preventing sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients to develop deep flavors in your sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results each time.
• Knife and cutting board: A sharp knife makes prep work quick, while a sturdy board provides safety during chopping.

Ingredients

Enjoy restaurant-quality Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta at home. This recipe features salmon, rotini, and a rich tomato basil sauce!

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces rotini pasta

For the Salmon

• 1 pound salmon, (skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces, patted dry)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes, (optional)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese, (plus more for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil, (chopped)
• chopped parsley, (for garnish)
• salt, (to taste)

How to Make Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the rotini pasta to the boiling water.
2. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, season the salmon pieces.
1. In a bowl, toss together salmon pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add seasoned salmon.
3. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking salmon:
1. Add another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in tomato paste followed by heavy cream; mix well.
4. Add grated parmesan cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, chopped basil; stir until combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked rotini to the sauce mixture in the skillet.
2. Gently fold in cooked salmon pieces; toss until everything is well coated.
3. If needed, adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta with additional parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Serving Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family meal or an elegant dinner party. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing and croutons balances the richness of the pasta.

Add Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic and herbs is perfect for dipping into the sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, flavorful bread that pairs beautifully with the pasta’s rich flavors.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil Sprigs: Top each plate with a sprig for added aroma and color.
• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of cheese just before serving enhances the dish’s creaminess.

How to Perfect Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Perfecting your Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some ideas to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to season your salmon well before cooking. This brings out its natural flavors.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh basil and high-quality tomatoes for a vibrant taste that canned products can’t replicate.
• Pasta timing: Cook rotini al dente; it will absorb some sauce as it rests, making it even tastier.
• Cream consistency: Allow heavy cream to slightly simmer before adding cheese, ensuring a smooth sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal and balance flavors. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside your Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture that complements the creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and color to your plate.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed serves as a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely with the main dish.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that many love.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an appetizing starter or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using overcooked pasta – Make sure to cook the rotini just until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Ignoring seasoning – Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best flavor.
• Not patting dry the salmon – Always pat dry the salmon pieces before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and enhances the overall texture.
• Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs; always use fresh if possible for this recipe.
• Rushing the sauce preparation – Allowing the sauce to simmer enables flavors to meld beautifully. Take your time to develop that rich taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of cream or water to a skillet over medium heat, stir in the pasta, and heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different proteins such as chicken or shrimp.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately, then combine them when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish for a complete meal.

Is Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta healthy?

With salmon rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fresh basil providing antioxidants, this dish offers both flavor and health benefits.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite ingredients or swapping proteins. Try out this recipe today; it’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!

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