Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in no time, trust me, this Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe is going to blow your mind. I absolutely love how creamy, fresh, and effortlessly elegant this dish tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Stick around—I’m about to share all my secrets to making this pasta option sing on your dinner table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic here is in the balance of fresh, simple ingredients that come together for a rich but not overpowering dinner. When you shop, try to pick the freshest salmon you can find and really good-quality mixed greens—trust me, it makes a difference!

• Pasta: I like tagliatelle for its flat ribbons that hold the sauce well, but fettuccine or linguine work great too.
• Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the sauce.
• Garlic: Mince it finely so it blends smoothly into the sauce.
• Butter: Perfect for searing salmon and adding richness.
• Salmon Fillet: Skin removed and any bones checked; freshness here really shines through.
• Dry White Wine: Choose something like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; avoid sweet wines to keep the sauce bright.
• Heavy Cream (Double Cream): Gives the sauce that luscious texture.
• Mixed Greens: Spinach, arugula, or watercress—each brings a fresh bite and color contrast.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: The lemon adds a bright pop that cuts through the cream beautifully.
• Salt: Season to taste; essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Variations

I absolutely encourage tweaking this Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeling like adding a little heat or want to sneak in extra veggies, there’s plenty of room for creativity here.

• Spicy Kick: I sometimes toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing shallots and garlic to give it a gentle warmth that wakes up the flavors.
• Different Greens: Baby kale or Swiss chard also work beautifully if you want a heartier green to mix in.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: I’ve used chickpea or rice pasta alternatives when friends visit, and everyone still loves the creamy sauce.
• Herb Swap: Fresh dill is wonderful in place of parsley if you want that classic salmon twist.

How to Make Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta Perfectly

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. I always reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—it’s a game-changer for dressing the sauce later, adding that extra silkiness and helping everything cling together.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Pat your salmon dry, season it with salt and pepper, then heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon pieces on all sides until they’re cooked through and have a beautiful golden crust—this usually takes just 2-3 minutes. Quick tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; giving each piece some space means better browning. Once done, slide the salmon onto a plate and set it aside gently.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Using the same pan (hello, flavor!), add a splash of olive oil then toss in your finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them gently over low heat for a minute or two until fragrant and soft—not browned. Then crank up the heat to medium and pour in your dry white wine. Let it reduce for about 5-7 minutes until it’s slightly thickened and aromatic.

Next, stir in the heavy cream, toss in your mixed greens, and season with salt, lemon zest, and juice. Stir everything until the greens wilt down and the sauce becomes velvety. If it feels too thick, whisk in a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing well to coat every strand with creamy goodness. Finally, gently fold in the seared salmon chunks and sprinkle chopped parsley all over for that fresh pop of color and flavor. Plate up, maybe squeeze a bit more lemon on top if you’re feeling zesty, and dig in!

How to Serve Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe

Garnishes

I always love a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a little extra lemon zest on top to brighten everything up. If you’re feeling fancy, shaved Parmesan or toasted pine nuts bring a lovely texture contrast. A few chili flakes can be tossed on for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

For sides, I keep it simple with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some buttery garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce—that always disappears pretty fast! Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans are also fantastic seasonal options.

Creative Ways to Present

Hosting a dinner party? Try plating this pasta in warm, shallow bowls with salmon chunks nestled beautifully on top. Garnish with edible flowers like nasturtiums or fresh microgreens to make it feel upscale and special. It’s surprisingly simple but looks stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be rare, because my family devours this!), store the pasta and salmon separately in airtight containers. The salmon can toughen if mixed too early. The pasta keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this dish with the cream sauce and salmon mixed—it can change the texture and flavor. However, you can freeze cooked salmon separately and toss freshly cooked pasta with sauce when you’re ready. It’s a better way to keep everything tasting fresh.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water to bring back creaminess. Microwave works too but watch it carefully to avoid drying out the salmon. Adding fresh parsley after reheating really brightens it up again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dinners because it feels so indulgent without being complicated. I love that it balances comfort-food creaminess with bright, fresh greens and that tender, flaky salmon. Give it a try—you’ll feel like you’re treating yourself to a little elegant restaurant meal right in your own kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds (and your family!) will thank you.

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