Why You’ll Love This Blackened Salmon Linguine
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests.
- Flavor Explosion: The bold blackened seasoning pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.
- Impressive Yet Simple: It looks gourmet but is easy to whip up in under 40 minutes.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level or use your favorite pasta shape.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or spatula
Blackened Salmon Linguine Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a pasta dish with a bold and exciting twist, this Blackened Salmon Linguine is a must-try! It features perfectly seasoned salmon with a smoky, spicy crust atop creamy linguine, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. This restaurant-quality dish is easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Linguine:
- 12 oz linguine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve
- Divide the creamy linguine among plates and top each with a blackened salmon fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a lemon wedge if desired.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Cook just until the salmon flakes easily with a fork to keep it moist and tender.
- Adjust the Heat: Add more or less cayenne pepper depending on your spice preference.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and lemon juice elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Make it Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Add a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use another type of fish?
A: Absolutely! Try this recipe with cod, tilapia, or even shrimp for a similar result.
Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free linguine or your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Q3: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer in place of the heavy cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute.
Conclusion: A Bold and Elegant Dinner
This Blackened Salmon Linguine is a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. The smoky, spicy salmon paired with creamy linguine creates a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Give it a try—you’ll love every bite!
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Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this flavorful and elegant pasta dish—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
