Salmon Pasta with Brussels Sprouts

Okay, friend—imagine this: tender flakes of salmon swimming in a velvety, lemony cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and sweet, slightly charred Brussels sprouts. Sound dreamy? Oh, it is. This dish is a flavor-packed hug in a bowl. It’s rich without being heavy, bright without being too tangy, and satisfying on every single level.

This isn’t your average weeknight pasta. It’s simple enough to whip up after a long day but impressive enough to serve at your next dinner party. There’s a balance of textures—crispy-edged sprouts, creamy sauce, and tender pasta—and layers of flavor that’ll make you go back for seconds (and maybe thirds… no judgment). Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.

Whether you’re trying to use up some pantry staples or planning a cozy evening in, this recipe is here to deliver big on taste with very little fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Citrus Salmon Tangle

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences—add a little heat, swap in a different veg, or boost the herbs.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Creamy, comforting, and a little gourmet? Say no more.

Ingredients in Creamy Citrus Salmon Tangle

Here’s the magic of this pasta dish—it’s made with everyday ingredients that come together like culinary alchemy. Let’s break it down:

Salmon Fillets:

The protein-packed superstar. Tender, flaky, and rich, salmon gives this pasta its satisfying bite.

Pasta:

Any short pasta works, but penne or fusilli really grabs onto that creamy sauce like a dream.

Brussels Sprouts:

Caramelized and slightly crispy, they add earthiness and texture that complements the richness of the salmon.

Garlic:

For a punch of savory depth. When sautéed, it brings out a mellow sweetness that ties everything together.

Lemon Zest and Juice:

The brightness that cuts through the creaminess—hello, flavor lift!

Heavy Cream:

Creates that luscious, silky sauce that makes this dish feel downright luxurious.

Parmesan Cheese:

Nutty and salty, it melts into the sauce, making it even more irresistible.

Olive Oil:

Used to roast the sprouts and bring a golden finish to the dish.

Salt and Pepper:

Season everything just right to bring out all those gorgeous layers of flavor.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures the Brussels sprouts roast beautifully while you prep the rest.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

Toss halved sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until golden and crispy on the edges.

Cook the Pasta:

Meanwhile, cook your pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining.

Sear the Salmon:

Season the salmon fillets and sear them in a hot skillet with olive oil, cooking until just opaque and flaky. Remove from the pan and gently break into chunks.

Make the Sauce:

In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant, then pour in the cream. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened slightly.

Combine Everything:

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently. Use a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Fold in roasted Brussels sprouts and salmon chunks carefully.

Final Touches:

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like. Every bite is creamy, zesty, and pure comfort

How to Serve Creamy Citrus Salmon Tangle

This dish shines on its own, but here are some lovely pairing ideas to elevate your meal:
Fresh Salads: A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
Chilled White Wine: Something like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the citrusy cream and salmon.
Roasted Veggies: If you want to bulk up the plate, roasted asparagus or baby carrots are great choices.
As a Standalone: Honestly, it’s rich and hearty enough to be the main event. A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the only extra it needs.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: You can roast the sprouts and sear the salmon ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for easy assembly.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you want a little kick.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream for coconut milk and skip the cheese for a plant-based version.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream.
Double the Batch: This recipe doubles easily—just use a larger skillet or pan to handle the extra volume.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A1: Absolutely! Just drain it well and flake it gently into the pasta. It’s a great budget-friendly alternative.
Q2: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A2: Yes, but fresh gives the best crispy texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before roasting.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A3: You can prep all the components in advance and assemble just before serving.
Q4: What’s the best pasta for this dish?
A4: Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well—they hold sauce beautifully and add great texture.
Q5: Can I substitute cream with a lighter option?
A5: Half-and-half or Greek yogurt can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?
A6: Gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but stir midway for even heating.
Q7: Can I make it gluten-free?
A7: Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
Q8: What herbs go well with this?
A8: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives add a lovely pop of freshness.
Q9: Can I add other vegetables?
A9: Definitely! Try peas, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Q10: Is this freezer-friendly?
A10: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Conclusion

And there it is—Creamy Citrus Salmon Tangle, your new favorite pasta night dish. It’s cozy, zesty, luxurious, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself to something extra special, this one’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

So grab your fork and dive in. Trust me, you’re going to love this

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