If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances indulgence and nutrition, look no further than this Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of tender salmon, vibrant sun-dried and cherry tomatoes, luscious spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that doesn’t overwhelm but enchants your taste buds. Best of all, it comes together in about 25 minutes, making it a weekday winner when you want something both satisfying and wholesome. This recipe packs a nutritious punch while feeling like a comforting, special-occasion meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver flavor, texture, and color that sing on your plate. From the silky sauce to the hearty salmon, understanding the role of each component helps bring the dish to life.
- Salmon (24 oz): Rich in omega-3s, this flaky fish is the star protein that makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 2% Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess without heaviness for a smooth, luscious sauce.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp): A simple thickening agent that helps your sauce reach the perfect consistency.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and perfectly browns the salmon for flavor depth.
- Olive Oil (1 tsp): Helps in cooking the salmon and garlic with a subtle fruity touch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic warmth that pairs beautifully with fish and vegetables.
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped): Offers a fresh, slightly earthy flavor and beautiful green color.
- Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Adds sweetness and juiciness to brighten the creamy sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/4 cup): Delivers an intense, tangy burst that complements the mild salmon.
- Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a savory, nutty finish to the sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the layers of flavor.
- Barilla Protein Pasta (1 serving): A nutritious pasta option that perfectly carries the sauce.
How to Make Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sear the Salmon
Begin by cutting the salmon into four portions and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your nonstick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and butter. Place the salmon skin-side down and let it cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is beautifully golden and crisp. Then, carefully flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still tender. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the 2% milk and cornstarch until completely smooth—this ensures your sauce will thicken perfectly. Using the same pan (no need to wash it), add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant and inviting. Then, slowly pour in your milk mixture, stirring consistently to avoid lumps. Let it simmer until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon, forming that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 3: Build Layers of Flavor
Now, stir in the chopped fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this medley just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly, about three minutes. This step really infuses the sauce with vibrant color, fresh and tangy flavors, and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Finish the Dish
Next, toss your cooked Barilla protein pasta right into the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is luxuriously coated. Finally, flake the salmon over the top or gently mix it through for an inviting presentation. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed before serving. This final assembly is where everything melds together beautifully.
How to Serve Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of fresh green and aroma that complements the creamy richness. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to brighten their dish with a gentle squeeze, cutting through the creaminess with satisfying citrus notes.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads dressed with vinaigrette—think arugula with lemon or a simple cucumber and red onion salad. Roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed green beans also make excellent accompaniments, adding a bit of textural contrast and additional veggies to keep the meal well-rounded and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant dinner party vibe, serve the Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe in shallow white bowls to highlight the colorful ingredients. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and garnish with a few whole cherry tomatoes or a few shavings of parmesan for a rustic, artisanal touch. You can also serve the salmon on top of the pasta whole or flaked delicately for a beautiful layered effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the salmon and pasta together for best flavor, but for extra freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving again.
Freezing
While the creamy sauce can change texture after freezing, you can freeze the cooked salmon and pasta separately if you want to preserve them longer. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
When reheating, do so over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts to avoid breaking the sauce. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or water if the sauce appears too thick. Gently warming preserves the creamy texture and keeps the salmon tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon brings a wonderful richness, other firm fishes like cod or trout can work in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as fish thickness may vary.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the 2% milk with a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk and replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan to keep things cheesy and delicious.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can prepare the creamy sauce a few hours ahead of time and warm it gently when ready to combine with pasta and salmon. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Barilla protein pasta is recommended here for its texture and nutritional benefits, but any pasta that holds sauce well—like penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine—will be excellent.
How can I make this Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe more spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir some fresh chopped chili into the sauce. It adds a lovely kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day, yet it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that fuel your body. Whip it up for family dinners or impress your friends at your next get-together. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta combines tender, seared salmon fillets with a luscious, creamy sauce loaded with fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, this quick and nutritious pasta dish can be on your table in just 25 minutes, offering a satisfying balance of protein, veggies, and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 24 oz salmon, cut into 4 portions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 1 serving Barilla Protein Pasta (about 2 oz dry)
Instructions
- Preheat the Pan. Place a nonstick pan on the stovetop over medium heat to warm up while preparing the other ingredients.
- Season the Salmon. Cut the salmon into four even portions and season each side generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Salmon. Add olive oil and butter to the hot pan. When the butter is melted and sizzling, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Mix Milk and Cornstarch. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2% milk and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps to prepare the base for the creamy sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce. Using the same pan after removing the salmon, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Slowly pour in the milk and cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously. Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Vegetables. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce. Continue cooking for about 3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly, blending their flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce. Toss the cooked Barilla protein pasta into the creamy Tuscan sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Serve with Salmon. Flake or gently place the cooked salmon pieces on top of the pasta. Sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving to add a final savory touch.
Notes
- You can use gluten-free pasta if preferred to make this dish gluten-free.
- To save time, cook pasta simultaneously while searing the salmon.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add slightly more cornstarch mixed with milk incrementally until desired consistency is reached.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add richer flavor; drain slightly before adding to control oiliness.
- Leftover salmon works well in this recipe for a quick meal the next day.
