Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce

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This creamy salmon and pea pasta is a light yet satisfying dish, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Made with flaky oven-baked salmon, sweet green peas, and a lemony crème fraîche sauce, it delivers rich flavor without being heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more omega-3s into your diet with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Pasta Recipe

• High-protein, nutrient-rich meal packed with omega-3s and vitamins

• Ready in just 30 minutes

• Uses affordable pantry and freezer staples

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets – Baked until tender and flaked into the sauce for a rich, protein-packed addition.

• 200g penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully with each bite.

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 large banana shallot – Adds a subtle, sweet onion flavor without overpowering the dish.

• 2 handfuls frozen peas – Bright, sweet, and a great contrast to the richness of the salmon.

Creamy Lemon Sauce:

• 6 tbsp crème fraîche – Light and tangy, it creates a creamy base without being too heavy.

• Zest of half a lemon + lemon juice to taste – Adds brightness and balances the creaminess.

Seasoning & Garnish:

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the fish and sauce.

• A splash of light oil – For sautéing the shallot.

• Fresh parsley or dill – Finishes the dish with a fragrant herbal note.

Expert Tips

• Use crème fraîche for a lighter texture compared to heavy cream.

• Don’t overcook the salmon—it should be just cooked and easy to flake.

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat if desired.

Variations and Substitutions

• No crème fraîche? Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream.

• Make it dairy-free using a plant-based cream alternative.

• Add extra veggies like spinach or asparagus for more color and nutrients.

• Swap the salmon for canned tuna or leftover chicken for a budget-friendly version.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

• Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy texture.

Common Questions

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, canned salmon works well in this recipe. Just drain and flake it before adding to the sauce.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for make-ahead lunches. Store it in individual containers and reheat gently.

Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2

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Description

This vibrant and comforting salmon & pea pasta is tossed in a light crème fraîche and lemon sauce that highlights the delicate flavor of the salmon. It’s a quick, nutritious dinner perfect for weeknights or a cozy lunch.

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Ingredients

• 200g penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)

• Salt, for boiling water

• 2 salmon fillets

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

• 1 large banana shallot, finely chopped

• A splash of light olive oil

• 2 handfuls of frozen peas

• 6 tablespoons crème fraîche

• Zest of half a lemon

• Lemon juice, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Salmon

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.

3. Wrap each fillet in foil and bake for 10 minutes, or until cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the penne until al dente, according to package instructions.

3. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pea Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat a splash of light olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the finely chopped shallot until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Stir in the crème fraîche, lemon zest, and black pepper. Let simmer gently.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Flake the baked salmon into bite-sized pieces.

2. Add the cooked pasta and salmon to the sauce.

3. Stir gently to combine. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

4. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the pasta in bowls.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for added flavor and color

Notes

This recipe is perfect for health-conscious food lovers searching for easy salmon pasta, creamy seafood dinners, or quick meals with omega-3s. It’s also budget-friendly, using freezer staples and pantry ingredients for a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal.

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• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: British

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