There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of pasta coated in a luscious, creamy sauce, studded with tender pieces of salmon and crisp asparagus. This Creamy Salmon and Asparagus Pasta is the perfect blend of rich and fresh, making it a weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together with ease. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe has you covered. The juicy salmon fillets pair beautifully with the bright, green asparagus, while the garlic-infused cream sauce brings everything together with a silky finish. If you love creamy seafood pastas, this dish is about to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple yet elegant: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining.
Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, balanced sauce.
Nutritious ingredients: Salmon is a great source of omega-3s, and asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy bite.
Flexible: Use your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine or penne, and customize with herbs or spice.
One-pan cooking: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe even more appealing.

What Goes In

8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne work beautifully)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 pound of salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into chunks
1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Setup & Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook pasta al dente
Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking salmon and asparagus and making the sauce
Colander – to drain pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring sauce
Knife and cutting board – to prep salmon and asparagus
Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese

Mastering Creamy Salmon and Asparagus Pasta: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon chunks with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Asparagus and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the asparagus pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to release its aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the asparagus and garlic. Slowly mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and salmon back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the top and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Better-for-You Options

Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and protein.
Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Incorporate additional veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Sauce too thick: Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce loosens up.
Salmon overcooked and dry: Cook salmon on medium heat and remove as soon as it flakes easily.
Garlic burns: Add garlic after asparagus is partially cooked and reduce heat to low.
Asparagus too mushy: Cook asparagus only until tender-crisp for the best texture.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store leftover Creamy Salmon and Asparagus Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling. For best flavor and texture, consume within a couple of days.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect how well it sears in the pan.

What pasta shape pairs best with this creamy sauce?

Fettuccine and penne are excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you love, such as linguine or rigatoni.

Is it okay to substitute Parmesan with another cheese?

Absolutely! Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes if you want a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind these cheeses can be saltier, so adjust seasoning accordingly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prep ingredients in advance. Chop the asparagus and garlic, and cut the salmon ahead of time. Cook everything just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti – another luscious seafood pasta with a garlicky, cheesy sauce.
Creamy Shrimp And Broccoli Pasta – a vibrant and creamy dish packed with shrimp and fresh broccoli.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta – combines tomatoes and garlic in a rich, creamy sauce that complements shrimp perfectly.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, heat up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of the most delicious Creamy Salmon and Asparagus Pasta you’ve ever made. This dish brings together the best of creamy comfort and fresh flavors, perfect for any occasion. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. You’ll love how effortlessly elegant this pasta feels — it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners alike.

With its rich sauce, tender salmon, and crisp asparagus, this Creamy Salmon and Asparagus Pasta is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon to brighten every bite. Happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest