Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta

There’s something truly magical about the combination of zesty lemon, fresh dill, and perfectly cooked salmon tossed with hearty whole wheat pasta. This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a vibrant, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is on your palate. It’s bursting with fresh flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to change up your pasta game, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

What makes this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta a crowd-pleaser is its perfect balance of fresh, bright, and savory flavors. The lemon juice and zest add a refreshing tang that pairs beautifully with the earthy dill and rich, flaky salmon. Using whole wheat pasta adds a hearty texture and a boost of fiber, making it feel wholesome without sacrificing any indulgence. Plus, cherry tomatoes add pops of sweetness and color, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a family dinner. And with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, it hits all the right notes for comfort and sophistication.

The Essentials

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta: Provides a nutty, wholesome base that’s both filling and nutritious.
• 2 salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed, skin removed for easy flaking and eating.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the salmon and garlic, adding richness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic flavor that complements the lemon and dill.
• 1 lemon: Both juiced and zested to maximize brightness and citrus zing.
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: The star herb that adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For serving, adds a savory, melty finish.

Recommended Tools

• Large pot: For boiling the whole wheat pasta to al dente perfection.
• Non-stick skillet: Ideal for cooking the salmon evenly without sticking.
• Garlic press or fine knife: To mince the garlic finely and release its aroma.
• Zester or microplane: Perfect for getting that fine lemon zest without the bitter pith.
• Colander: For draining the pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Tongs or pasta fork: To toss the pasta and ingredients together evenly.

Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Whole Wheat Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes, then flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Salmon, and Flavors

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic and tomatoes. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over everything. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Add Fresh Dill and Flaked Salmon

Fold in the chopped fresh dill and flaked salmon gently, taking care not to break up the salmon too much. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve with Parmesan

Divide the pasta between plates or bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra lemony touch, add a lemon wedge on the side.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat if avoiding gluten.
• Skip the Parmesan or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Increase the amount of cherry tomatoes and dill for more veggies and herbs.
• Use less olive oil or substitute with a light spray oil to reduce calories.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooked salmon: Cook salmon just until it flakes easily to keep it moist and tender.
• Bitter lemon zest: Avoid zesting the white pith under the skin as it adds bitterness.
• Sticky pasta: Be sure to reserve some pasta water and toss pasta immediately to prevent clumping.
• Garlic burning: Sauté garlic on medium-low heat and watch carefully to avoid bitterness.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate nature of salmon and fresh herbs. However, if you want to freeze leftovers, separate the salmon from the pasta and freeze the pasta with the sauce alone. When reheating, gently warm the pasta and add fresh-cooked salmon and dill for the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing the dish fully assembled to prevent sogginess.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Pat it dry to remove any excess moisture for better searing.

What’s the best substitute if I don’t have fresh dill?

Dried dill can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated—about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons should suffice. Fresh parsley can also add a nice herbal note if dill isn’t available.

How do I make this dish creamier?

For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right after sautéing the garlic and tomatoes. This turns your pasta into a luscious sauce without overpowering the lemon and dill flavors, similar to a Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

Can I swap salmon for other proteins?

Yes! Try substituting with cooked shrimp for a quick alternative, or grilled chicken breast for a lighter option. If you want to keep seafood, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe shares a similar flavor profile. Chicken lovers might enjoy the Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti as a related dish.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta – A luscious, creamy seafood pasta that’s bursting with lemon flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti – A bright and zesty chicken pasta perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta – Classic shrimp scampi with garlic butter sauce over pasta.

Save & Share

If you loved this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta, don’t forget to bookmark it for your next dinner inspiration and share it with friends who appreciate fresh, flavorful meals. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Share your photos and tag your creations on social media – I’d love to see your take on this delicious dish!

This pasta recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that feels special without any fuss. The bright lemon and dill bring a fresh, vibrant twist to the classic salmon pasta that’s both healthy and indulgent. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself adding it to your regular rotation. Happy cooking!

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