Oh my gooooooodness this meal is tasty! It’s the answer if you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or you want to impress some guests.

The inspiration behind the dish came when I was making my Creamy Lemon Pasta one night and wanted some protein with it. I immediately thought of salmon since it’s nice and delicate, and I thought about how magical it would be with a warm brown butter sort of flavour and crispy garlic bits on top for texture. 

Now I’m not sure I’ll ever go back! I love the balance of flavours here so much. Let me know if you end up trying it out!

How to make Garlic Butter Salmon with Creamy Lemon Pasta:

Step One:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step Two:

Take the salmon out of the fridge about 20 minutes prior to cooking. This will help it cook more evenly. Pat dry with a paper towel on both sides and season with salt.

Step Three:

Start boiling your water in a large pot. Prep your garlic, shallot and lemon zest (makes it easier to throw in while cooking!)

Step Four:

In a pan over medium-high heat, heat up some olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Sear the salmon, skin-side down for about 3 minutes and then flip. Gently sear for another 2 minutes, reduce the heat to low, and remove the salmon from the pan and place on a baking sheet (I like adding a layer of parchment paper underneath).

Step Five:

Add in the second tbsp of butter and then the sliced garlic, stirring frequently for a few minutes until the garlic slices turn lightly golden brown and crispy. 

Step Six:

Spoon the brown butter and crispy garlic mixture over the salmon filets and pop into the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until cooked to your liking. Option to finish under the broiler for a few minutes to get the top of the salmon and garlic bits a little crispier!

Step Eight:

Salt the boiling water, add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook until al dente.

Step Nine:

Meanwhile, in the same pan you cooked the salmon/butter/garlic, add in your last tbsp of butter over medium heat and sauté the shallots and minced garlic for two minutes.

Step Ten:

Add in lemon zest, the juice of half a lemon and stir for another minute.

Step Eleven:

Add in heavy cream, stir, and then in goes the al dente pasta along with some of the starchy pasta water. Let the pasta get nicely coated with the sauce over the next minute then we’re ready to plate!

Creamy Lemon Pasta on the bottom, and topped with the Garlic Butter Salmon, finished with some fresh parsley or dill. Enjoy!

How to Store Garlic Butter Salmon with Creamy Lemon Pasta:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water to the pasta if it’s become too thick. The salmon is best enjoyed when fresh but can be reheated carefully to maintain its moisture.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Salmon with Creamy Lemon Pasta:

• It’s perfect for ANY occassion: It’s versatile enough to be served at an elegant dinner party yet simple enough for a quiet meal at home, making it a go-to recipe for any event.
• It’s accessible and easy: Despite its complex flavour profile, the dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find in any grocery store, ensuring that you can whip up this gourmet meal without any hassle or need for specialized shopping.
• The flavours are amazing: The richness of the garlic butter, paired with the tender, flaky salmon, compliments the bright, citrusy undertones of the creamy lemon pasta in a way that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
• Salmon benefits: Salmon is well-known for its health benefits, being rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

If you end up trying this please tag me @britacooks on social! I love seeing your creations.