Tuscan Salmon Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and wholesome ingredients, look no further than this Tuscan Salmon Penne. This recipe combines succulent salmon fillets with a luscious cream sauce, bursting cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Inspired by the sun-soaked flavors of Tuscany, this dish is both comforting and elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The blend of herbs like basil and oregano with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese brings everything together in a harmonious melody of taste. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a keeper you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in less than half an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Rich and creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and salmon.
• Flavor-packed: Garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Italian herbs bring authentic Tuscan charm to your plate.
• Nutritious: High in protein and omega-3s thanks to the fresh salmon.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite pasta or seasonal vegetables.

What We’re Using

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the rich sauce and tender salmon pieces.
• 2 salmon fillets: Fresh, skinless, and boneless for easy cooking and flaky texture.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a fruity depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they add color and brightness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, herbal note synonymous with Tuscan cooking.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma to finish.

Equipment & Tools

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan: To cook the salmon and prepare the sauce.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic and halving cherry tomatoes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce gently without scratching the pan.

Tuscan Salmon Penne, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and flake easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate. Once slightly cooled, break it into bite-sized chunks.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Salmon, and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta and the chunked salmon back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, coating the pasta and salmon evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Basil

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir gently to melt it into the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Pasta: Use fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle if penne isn’t available.
• Salmon: Substitute with other firm fish like cod or halibut, or use cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Heavy cream: For a lighter option, swap with coconut cream or a blend of milk and cream cheese.
• Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
• Fresh herbs: If you don’t have dried basil or oregano, fresh rosemary or thyme can add a lovely aroma.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente texture holds up best when mixed with the sauce.
• Be gentle with the salmon: Overcooking can make it dry; it should flake easily but remain moist.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
• Garlic timing: Add garlic carefully to avoid burning, which can cause bitterness.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting, especially once cheese is added.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftover Tuscan Salmon Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving is also fine; just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the salmon.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well. Just thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture for your Tuscan Salmon Penne.

What can I serve with Tuscan Salmon Penne?

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A side of garlic bread is also a delicious addition.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon in advance, then combine everything just before serving. However, pasta is best cooked fresh for optimal texture.

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• Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne – A vegetarian take featuring garlic-infused cream sauce and vibrant spinach.

Bring It Home

This Tuscan Salmon Penne is the kind of meal that feels like a warm embrace—comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in, it promises to satisfy your cravings without demanding hours in the kitchen. The delicate salmon, creamy sauce, and bright bursts of cherry tomato come together in perfect harmony, making it a standout recipe you’ll return to time and again. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and savor every bite of this delightful dish. Your dinner table just got a whole lot more special.

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