The Best Shrimp and Salmon Pasta
Picture this: tender shrimp and flaky salmon swimming in a creamy, garlicky sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of pasta. This shrimp and salmon pasta is pure comfort food magic that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary. Here’s a fun fact – combining two types of seafood in one dish was actually a signature move of Italian-American restaurants in the 1950s to showcase their premium ingredients.
What makes this dish truly special is how it delivers restaurant-quality flavors using simple techniques that anyone can master in just 30 minutes. It’s surprisingly budget-friendly when you consider you’re getting two premium proteins in one satisfying meal.
If you loved our creamy garlic butter chicken pasta, you’ll absolutely adore this seafood twist that brings the same comfort with an elegant upgrade. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
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What is Shrimp and Salmon Pasta?
Now, you might be wondering – what exactly makes this shrimp and salmon pasta so special? Is it just regular pasta with some fancy seafood thrown on top? Not quite! This dish is a beautiful marriage of two ocean treasures that complement each other perfectly. The sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery taste of salmon, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
I like to think of it as the ultimate “surf and surf” experience – why choose between land and sea when you can have the best of both waters? There’s an old saying that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish certainly proves that point. The combination creates such a luxurious dining experience that your family will think you’ve hired a personal chef.
Don’t let the fancy name intimidate you though – this recipe is surprisingly approachable and forgiving, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks ready to dive into something deliciously different.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Salmon Pasta
The Perfect Protein Combination
This shrimp and salmon pasta delivers the best of both worlds with its dual seafood stars. The shrimp provides a sweet, tender bite while the salmon adds rich, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Together, they create a protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
Budget-Friendly Luxury
Making this dish at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a fancy restaurant. You can enjoy premium seafood without breaking the bank, especially when you buy frozen shrimp and salmon on sale. It’s like having a five-star dining experience in your own kitchen.
Incredible Flavor Profile
The creamy garlic sauce ties everything together with herbs and spices that enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood. Each bite delivers layers of flavor that build and complement each other. If you enjoyed our popular lemon garlic butter shrimp, you’ll love how this recipe takes those same flavors and elevates them with the addition of salmon. Ready to treat yourself to restaurant-quality dining at home?
How to Make Shrimp and Salmon Pasta
Quick Overview
This shrimp and salmon pasta is surprisingly simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The key to success lies in not overcooking the seafood and building layers of flavor with garlic, herbs, and cream.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Key Ingredients for Shrimp and Salmon Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Season the Seafood Pat shrimp and salmon chunks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This ensures the seafood develops a nice sear and doesn’t become watery.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil if needed. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside with salmon.
Step 5: Build the Sauce Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add white wine if using and let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off alcohol.
Step 6: Create the Cream Base Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add butter and let it melt completely. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 7: Combine Everything Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss to coat, adding pasta water gradually if needed to achieve desired consistency. Gently fold in the cooked salmon and shrimp.
Step 8: Finish and Serve Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately while hot.
What to Serve Shrimp and Salmon Pasta With
This rich shrimp and salmon pasta pairs beautifully with several complementary sides. A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and cuts through the creamy sauce perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is essential for soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.
For vegetables, try roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli to add color and nutrition to your plate. A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Shrimp and Salmon Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Seafood
The biggest mistake people make is overcooking the shrimp and salmon. Shrimp should be pink and slightly firm, while salmon should flake easily but still be moist inside. Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Since this dish has relatively few ingredients, each one matters. Choose fresh or high-quality frozen seafood, real Parmesan cheese, and good olive oil for the best results.
Save That Pasta Water
The starchy pasta water is your secret weapon for creating the perfect sauce consistency. Add it gradually while tossing the pasta to achieve a silky, restaurant-quality finish.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream. If you don’t have white wine, substitute with extra lemon juice or chicken broth.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover shrimp and salmon pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The seafood is best consumed within this timeframe for optimal taste and food safety.
Freezing Instructions: While you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, the texture of the seafood and cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, portion into individual servings for easier reheating.
Reheating Methods: For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce consistency. Microwave reheating is possible but may result in uneven heating and rubbery seafood.
Make-Ahead Tips: This dish is best served immediately after cooking. However, you can prep ingredients in advance by cleaning seafood, chopping garlic and herbs, and having everything ready to go for quick assembly.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Cholesterol | 185mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and based on 6 servings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen seafood! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp and salmon work great and are often more budget-friendly than fresh options.
What type of pasta works best for shrimp and salmon pasta?
Linguine and fettuccine are ideal because their long, flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. You can also use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer. The key is choosing something that will capture that delicious sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the seafood is properly cooked?
Shrimp should be pink and slightly firm to the touch, while salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be moist inside. Overcooking will make both tough and rubbery.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately after cooking. However, you can prep all ingredients in advance and have everything ready for quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.
What wine pairs best with shrimp and salmon pasta?
Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay complement the seafood beautifully. You can also enjoy it with a light rosé.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or include some diced jalapeños when cooking the garlic. A dash of hot sauce at the end also works well.
Can I substitute the white wine in the recipe?
Yes, you can replace white wine with extra lemon juice, chicken broth, or simply omit it altogether. The dish will still be delicious without it.
This shrimp and salmon pasta proves that restaurant-quality meals can be made at home with simple ingredients and techniques. The combination of tender seafood, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something delicious, this recipe delivers every time. The best part? You’ll have everyone asking for seconds and begging for the recipe. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create some serious kitchen magic with this incredible shrimp and salmon pasta.