This Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce is the kind of meal that feels elegant yet incredibly easy to pull together. Flaky baked salmon, tender pasta, and sweet peas are tossed in a silky lemon-infused cream sauce that’s bright, comforting, and perfectly balanced. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or even casual entertaining. If you’re searching for easy recipes that feel special without being complicated, this creamy salmon pasta delivers on every level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-friendly and easy to prepare
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Balanced flavors with creamy and fresh notes
- Family-approved and elegant enough for guests
- A foolproof, no-fail pasta recipe
This Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a true crowd-pleaser that works for both everyday meals and special occasions.
About the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce plays an essential role in creating its comforting yet fresh flavor profile.
- Salmon Fillets – Tender, flaky protein that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces
- Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce well and provides satisfying texture
- Banana Shallot – Adds mild sweetness and depth to the sauce
- Frozen Peas – Bring pops of sweetness and vibrant color
- Crème Fraîche – Creates a rich, tangy, creamy base
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the dish and balances richness
- Salt & Pepper – Enhances all flavors
- Light Oil – Used for gentle sautéing
- Fresh Herbs – Add freshness and visual appeal
These simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality pasta dish at home.
Tips & Tricks
- Bake salmon just until flaky to avoid dryness
- Salt pasta water generously for best flavor
- Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce if needed
- Zest the lemon before juicing for ease
- Toss gently to keep salmon pieces intact
These easy kitchen hacks help ensure perfect results every time.
Pro Tips
- Use skinless salmon for easier flaking
- Swap crème fraîche with Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- Add lemon zest gradually to avoid overpowering
- Stir sauce on low heat to prevent separation
- Finish with fresh herbs right before serving
These expert tips elevate this easy pasta dinner into a refined, balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet and place salmon fillets on it.
- Season salmon lightly with salt and pepper. Bake for 12–15 minutes until flaky.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped shallot until translucent.
- Add frozen peas and cook until heated through.
- Lower heat and stir in crème fraîche, lemon juice, and zest. Warm gently.
- Add cooked pasta and flaked salmon to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
This easy step-by-step recipe ensures creamy, flavorful results every time.
Variations
Customize your Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce with these easy twists:
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta
- Dairy-Free Version – Substitute coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt
- Extra Veggies – Add spinach or asparagus
- Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes
- Protein Swap – Use shrimp or rotisserie chicken
These recipe variations make this dish adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
How to Store Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream
- Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces may separate
- Store herbs separately for best freshness
This dish works well as a make-ahead dinner with gentle reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components separately and combine just before serving.
Can I use canned salmon?
Absolutely. Drain and flake it before adding to the sauce.
What pasta works best?
Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal for holding the sauce.
Can I make it lighter?
Use Greek yogurt instead of crème fraîche and reduce portion size.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Keep heat low and stir gently once dairy is added.
Savory Salmon & Pea Pasta with Creamy Lemon Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the sheet, season lightly with salt and pepper, and bake for 12–15 minutes until tender and flaky. Set aside to cool slightly, then flake into pieces.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through and bright green.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in crème fraîche, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and flaked salmon to the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
