Name: Tuscan Salmon with Mafaldine Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; Lemon wedges, for serving; 12–16 oz mafaldine pasta (or substitute with penne or fettuccine); 2 tsp avocado oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet elegant, you’ve come to the right place! Picture this: flaky, flavorful salmon paired with silky, delicious Mafaldine pasta, all smothered in a rich and creamy Tuscan sauce that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Trust me, this Tuscan Salmon with Mafaldine Pasta will have you hooked from the first bite, and you’ll be looking for any excuse to make it again.

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So, why will you love this recipe? Let’s dive in:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Salmon: The star of the show. Flaky, tender salmon fillets soak up all the Tuscan-inspired flavors, giving you a bite that’s pure comfort.

Mafaldine Pasta: The curly-edged pasta that perfectly holds onto all that rich sauce. It’s the kind of pasta that loves a creamy coating, making each bite feel like a warm hug.

Garlic: Because what is Italian food without garlic? It’s the base that kicks off the flavor journey in this dish.

Heavy Cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that ties everything together. It makes the sauce velvety and indulgent, and you’ll be tempted to slurp up every last drop.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a beautiful pop of color and balance to the richness of the cream. It’s a touch of green that feels like the dish’s fresh, healthy side.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sweet, tangy, and oh-so-savory. These little bursts of flavor bring that authentic Tuscan flair to the table.

Lemon Zest: A hint of citrus to brighten up the richness of the sauce and add a fresh, aromatic finish.

Parmesan Cheese: Because, let’s be honest, everything is better with cheese. The Parmesan melts into the sauce and adds that irresistible umami flavor.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your pan to medium heat. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.

Cook the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the hot pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Mafaldine Pasta: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the Mafaldine pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for the sauce.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add a touch of olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Make the Sauce: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts down. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the lemon zest, letting everything simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Salmon: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the pasta. If the sauce needs thinning, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Add Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a beautiful, creamy texture.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate your Tuscan salmon with Mafaldine pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
(Full nutrition details available in the recipe card)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Tuscan Salmon with Mafaldine Pasta

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the salmon with another type of fish?
A1: Absolutely! If you prefer a different fish, try using cod, trout, or tilapia. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but still work wonderfully in this dish.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it up to the point where you add the pasta, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just heat it up and toss in the cooked pasta.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Of course! Just double the ingredients, and you’re all set. Make sure your pan is large enough to accommodate everything!

Q7: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A7: Yes, gluten-free pasta will work just as well. Simply cook it according to package instructions and follow the same process.

Q8: Can I use fresh herbs in place of dried?
A8: Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can add a lovely touch to this dish. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.

Q9: Can I skip the sun-dried tomatoes?
A9: If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, feel free to omit them. You can also try substituting with roasted red peppers for a similar tangy flavor.

Q10: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A10: Yes! Try adding mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even artichoke hearts. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

This Tuscan Salmon with Mafaldine Pasta is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s comforting, creamy, and full of flavor, yet easy enough to whip up on a busy evening. With a few simple ingredients and just a handful of steps, you’ll have a meal that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence. Trust me, you’re going to love it!

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Tuscan Salmon with Mafaldine Pasta

Description

Ingredients

For the Blackened Salmon

For the Tuscan Mafaldine Pasta

Instructions

Blackened Salmon

Mafaldine Pasta

Notes

Nutrition