This recipe for Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. It's a sophisticated yet homey dish, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Photos of Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce Recipe
A few ingredients in this recipe may not be in your everyday pantry. Arugula, a peppery salad green also known as rocket, can usually be found pre-washed in bags in the produce section. Look for a dry white wine you would enjoy drinking - it will add depth and complexity to the sauce. Fresh salmon fillets are key to this dish, and you can usually find these in the seafood section of most supermarkets.
Ingredients for Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Extra virgin olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, its fruity, peppery notes complement the salmon and pasta.
Salmon fillets: Rich in flavor and packed with protein, they serve as the hearty centerpiece of this dish.
Kosher salt: Used for seasoning the salmon and pasta water, as it dissolves faster and distributes more evenly than table salt.
Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
Angel hair pasta: Thin, delicate pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce well.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess to the sauce. Unsalted allows you to control the sodium in the dish.
Shallot: Adds a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to onions.
Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory backbone to the sauce.
Dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce.
Lemons: Their juice adds brightness while the rind infuses the sauce with a subtle citrus flavor.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and velvety.
Arugula: Adds a peppery, slightly bitter note to balance the richness of the sauce and salmon.
Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.
One reader, Christoper Richards says:
This angel hair pasta with salmon, arugula, and creamy lemon-parmesan sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the creamy sauce complements the salmon and arugula beautifully. It's a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home. I highly recommend trying it!
Key Techniques for Making Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
How to sear the salmon: Searing the salmon fillets involves heating oil in a pan and cooking the fillets for 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. This technique helps to lock in the moisture and flavor of the salmon.
How to deglaze the pan: After sautéing the shallot and garlic, deglazing the pan involves adding white wine and lemon juice to the hot pan and using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This process adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
How to reduce the sauce: Reducing the sauce involves boiling it until it thickens and reduces in volume by half, intensifying the flavors and creating a rich, creamy texture.
How to cook the pasta al dente: Cooking the pasta al dente means boiling it for a few minutes less than the package instructions suggest, so it retains a slight firmness when bitten. This ensures the pasta has a pleasing texture and doesn't become mushy when combined with the sauce.
How to finish the sauce with arugula: Adding the arugula to the sauce and allowing it to wilt slightly helps to infuse the dish with a fresh, peppery flavor and vibrant green color.
How To Make Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Flaky salmon complements the delicate angel hair pasta beautifully. A little spice is given by the arugula & everything is covered with a lemon-cream sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil,separated
- 1¼lbssalmon fillets,(preferably wild caught king or sockeye salmon)
- 2¼tspkosher salt,divided
- 1tspground black pepper,divided
- 1lbsangel hair pasta
- 4tbspunsalted butter,separated
- 1tbspshallot,minced
- 4clovesgarlic,minced
- 1cupdry white wine,or seafood stock
- 2juice and rinds of lemons,(⅓ to ½ cup juice)
- 2cupsheavy cream
- 5ozarugula,(4 packed cups)
- 1cupfreshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Set the oven to its lowest setting to keep the salmon warm once it’s cooked.
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Start the water for pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
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Rub both sides of the fillets with 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt and a half a teaspoon of the black pepper.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large sauté pan (preferably nonstick). Once the oil starts to ripple in the pan, place the salmon fillets into the pan, skin-side up.
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Press the fillets down gently to make sure the entire surface makes contact with the pan. Sear the salmon fillets for 3 minutes, or until the flesh turns an opaque pink ¼ of the way up the sides of the fillets.
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Use a spatula to flip the salmon and sear it, skin-side down, for an additional 3 minutes.
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Transfer the fillets to a sheet pan and place them in the heated oven while finishing the dish. It’s okay if the salmon is not cooked completely through just yet—it will continue to cook in the oven.
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In the same pan used to sear the salmon, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and the garlic to the pan and sauté for 3 minutes, or until glossy and fragrant. Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pan and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits of food that have stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add the lemon halves and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce the sauce in the pan by half by maintaining a boil. This should take 3 to 4 minutes.
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By now, the pasta water should be at a rolling boil. Add generous tablespoon of salt to the boiling water and drop the pasta into the middle of the pot. Stir the pasta immediately to separate the noodles.
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Lower the temperature slightly to prevent the water from boiling over and cook the pasta for 4 to 5 minutes, until al dente (or according to package directions). Drain the pasta.
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Once the liquid in the pan has reduced by half, reduce the heat to medium-low. Remove the lemon halves. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and the remaining butter. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer, then add the arugula. Stir to coat the arugula in the sauce and allow it to wilt slightly—this should only take a minute or so. Add the Parmesan, along with the remaining salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, by adding a bit more salt or pepper.
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Add the pasta to the pan with the sauce. Using tongs, toss in the pasta in the sauce until it is evenly coated.
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Remove the warm salmon fillets from the oven and arrange on top of the pasta. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1004.34kcal
- Fat: 61.99g
- Saturated Fat: 30.95g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 19.32g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.19g
- Carbohydrates: 64.34g
- Fiber: 3.53g
- Sugar: 5.93g
- Protein: 40.78g
- Cholesterol: 197.87mg
- Sodium: 870.64mg
- Calcium: 424.27mg
- Potassium: 756.69mg
- Iron: 2.22mg
- Vitamin A: 470.53µg
- Vitamin C: 18.71mg
Mastering the Art of Cooking Angel Hair Pasta
When searing salmon, it's important to press the fillets gently into the pan to ensure even cooking. This contact with the heat source allows the salmon to develop a delicious crust, while the inside remains tender and juicy. Also, remember to let the salmon rest in a warm oven after searing. This allows the residual heat to finish cooking the salmon, ensuring it's perfectly cooked throughout without being overdone.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Dish
Prep ahead: Chop the shallots and garlic in advance, and measure out the other ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, start preparing the sauce to save time and ensure everything is ready to be combined at the same time.
Fresh ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors and reduce the need for excessive seasoning or adjustments.
Substitute Ingredients For Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce Recipe
angel hair pasta - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash is a great low-carb alternative to pasta and provides a similar texture when cooked. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
salmon - Substitute with trout: Trout has a similar texture and flavor to salmon, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe. It's also a sustainable seafood option.
arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach has a mild, slightly peppery flavor similar to arugula and provides a nutritious, leafy green component to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the sauce.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in the creamy lemon-parmesan sauce.
Presentation Tips for Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon and Arugula
Elevate the salmon fillets: Gently place the seared salmon fillets on the pasta, ensuring they are positioned at an angle to create a visually appealing presentation. The salmon should be the star of the dish, so showcase it prominently on top of the pasta.
Garnish with arugula: Sprinkle a handful of fresh arugula over the plated dish. The vibrant green color of the arugula will add a pop of freshness and contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta and the pink salmon.
Drizzle with lemon-parmesan sauce: Carefully spoon the luscious lemon-parmesan sauce over the plated dish, ensuring that it cascades gracefully over the salmon and pasta. The sauce should be evenly distributed, adding a glossy sheen to the dish.
Grate fresh parmesan: Using a fine grater, delicately sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the entire dish. The aromatic cheese will enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Arrange lemon wedges: Artfully place small wedges of fresh lemon around the edges of the plate. This not only adds a burst of color but also serves as a visual cue for the delightful citrus flavors present in the dish.
Consider the plate: Choose a wide, shallow plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The plate should provide ample space for the salmon, pasta, and sauce to be displayed harmoniously.
Emphasize symmetry: Aim for a balanced and symmetrical arrangement of the components on the plate. The visual appeal of the dish is heightened when the elements are thoughtfully positioned.
Use microgreens for a finishing touch: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the dish just before serving. These tiny greens add a touch of finesse and elevate the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe
Large sauté pan: A large sauté pan is used to sear the salmon fillets and prepare the creamy lemon-parmesan sauce. It provides ample space for cooking and allows for easy stirring and tossing of ingredients.
Sheet pan: The sheet pan is used to transfer the seared salmon fillets to the oven to keep them warm while the rest of the dish is being prepared. It provides a flat, stable surface for the salmon fillets.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used to stir and scrape up any bits of food that have stuck to the bottom of the pan when deglazing and reducing the sauce. It is gentle on the pan's surface and ideal for sautéing and stirring.
Tongs: Tongs are used to toss the pasta in the creamy lemon-parmesan sauce, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated. They also come in handy for arranging the warm salmon fillets on top of the pasta before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon
Reheat the angel hair pasta in the microwave: place the desired amount of leftover pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or chicken broth to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and steaming.
Reheat the salmon separately in the oven: preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is warmed through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can quickly become dry.
Reheat the creamy lemon-parmesan sauce on the stovetop: transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help thin it out. Once the sauce is heated through and simmering, remove it from the heat.
Combine the reheated components: gently toss the reheated angel hair pasta with the warm creamy lemon-parmesan sauce until the pasta is evenly coated. If the arugula is still fresh and crisp, you can add it to the pasta at this point. If it has wilted, consider replacing it with fresh arugula or another leafy green, such as baby spinach.
Serve the dish: divide the pasta among serving plates and top each portion with a reheated salmon fillet. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your reheated meal!
Interesting Trivia About Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon
Angel hair pasta is a very thin type of pasta, also known as capellini. It cooks quickly and is often used in light dishes, making it a popular choice for seafood-based recipes like this one.
Is Making Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this angel hair pasta with salmon, arugula, and creamy lemon-parmesan sauce recipe is moderate. While salmon and arugula can be pricier ingredients, the dish's overall cost is balanced by the use of pantry staples like pasta, olive oil, and garlic. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $40-$50, depending on the quality of the ingredients. The dish's rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a standout choice for a special occasion or a luxurious family dinner. Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The angel hair pasta with salmon, arugula, and creamy lemon-parmesan sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Arugula is a nutrient-dense leafy green that provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The dish also includes garlic and shallots, which offer potential health benefits.
However, the recipe has some less healthy components. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese contribute to a high saturated fat content, which can be detrimental to heart health if consumed in excess. The pasta, while delicious, is a refined carbohydrate that may cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of added salt, which could be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated skim milk, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use whole-grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Reduce the amount of added salt and let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through
- Increase the proportion of arugula or add other vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, to boost the vegetable content and provide more vitamins and minerals
- Use a smaller amount of high-quality parmesan cheese to maintain the flavor while reducing the overall fat and calorie content
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds and provides the comforting experience of a creamy pasta dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Pasta Recipe
The combination of tender seared salmon, al dente angel hair pasta, and a creamy lemon-parmesan sauce is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The dish's balance of acidity from the lemon, richness from the cream, and saltiness from the parmesan creates a harmonious blend. The addition of peppery arugula adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for home cooks, and the final presentation is both elegant and appetizing. This dish is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
Enhance Your Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Pasta Recipes to Try
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement This Pasta Dish
Why trust this Angel Hair Pasta with Salmon, Arugula, and Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Sauce Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with salmon fillets, arugula, and a creamy lemon-parmesan sauce. The use of high-quality ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, dry white wine, and freshly grated parmesan cheese ensures a rich and authentic flavor profile. The detailed cooking instructions and precise timings for searing the salmon and preparing the sauce showcase culinary expertise. The combination of angel hair pasta and perfectly cooked salmon, topped with the luscious sauce, promises a restaurant-quality meal at home. Trust in this recipe for a memorable dining experience.
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