Delicious Lemon Salmon Spaghetti Recipe

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Looking for a tasty dish? Try this lemon salmon spaghetti recipe. It combines the rich flavor of salmon with the tangy taste of lemon. This dish is tasty and easy to make, perfect for hectic weekdays or a nice weekend meal.

Let's dive into the world of seafood pasta and whip up a plate of this delightful salmon lemon spaghetti.

The Appeal of Seafood Pasta

Seafood lemon pasta is a classic combination that never goes out of style. It brings together the heartiness of pasta with the delicate flavors of the sea. Salmon is great for pasta because it tastes good and is good for you. It has omega-3 fatty acids and important vitamins.

Why Lemon and Salmon?

Lemon has a natural affinity for salmon. The citrusy tang helps cut through the richness of the fish, enhancing its flavor without overpowering it. When put together into pasta, lemon adds a bright and fresh element that balances the dish perfectly.

Ingredients for Lemon Salmon Spaghetti

• 12 oz Fish For Skeptics Salmon, skin on
• 4 oz Spaghetti (or any other pasta shape)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 4 tbsp Olive Oil - divided
• 2 Garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice from 1 lemon
• ¼ cup pasta water
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Fresh Basil leaves
• Parmesan cheese, shaved

Preparing Your Lemon Salmon Spaghetti

1. Place the fish in the refrigerator overnight to defrost. Pat the fish dry with a towel. Put it on a plate, skin side up, and leave it in the fridge for an hour.
2. This will dry up the skin to help it crisp up later.
3. Follow the instructions of the pasta box to cook the pasta al dente. Save ¼ cup of the salty pasta water. 
4. Generously salt and pepper the fish.
5. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet and when hot place the fish skin side down into the pan. Press lightly with a spatula on top of the fish to prevent it from curling up. Sear for about 4 minutes then flip and cook for additional 3 minutes. Remove fish from pan and set aside, skin side up, while making the sauce.
6. Wipe the pan clean and melt the butter and remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium low heat. Add garlic and sauté for a minute. 
7. Remove pan from heat, add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of pasta water. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Toss the cooked spaghetti with sauce, garnish with basil, shaved cheese and some additional cracked black pepper. Place fish on top and serve.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Salmon Spaghetti

Choosing the Right Salmon

When choosing the right salmon for your dish, it is essential to consider the flavor and texture that you want to achieve. One key factor to keep in mind is to select salmon that still have the skin on.

By opting for salmon with the skin intact, you can ensure that your fish remains moist and succulent throughout the cooking process. Also, keeping the skin on the salmon can make it easier to flip and cook evenly in the pan. It helps to make the cooking process smoother and easier. When you are looking for salmon on the internet, make sure to pick fillets with the skin on for better cooking results.

Perfecting the Pasta

When it comes to cooking pasta, one important factor to consider is ensuring that it is cooked to al dente. This means that the pasta is cooked just enough so that it is tender, but still retains a slight bite to it. This is crucial because having the pasta al dente is key in creating a good pasta dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Additionally, another tip to keep in mind is to save some of the pasta water after cooking. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce stick to the pasta better. It's a small thing, but it makes a big difference. By adding this simple step into your pasta-making process, you can elevate the overall flavor and texture of your dish to a whole new level.

Adjusting the Lemon Flavor

Lemon zest and juice can vary in intensity. Start with the amounts listed in the recipe and adjust to your taste. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, use less juice and zest.

To Capers or Not to Capers

Capers add a briny depth to the dish, but they are optional. If you're not a fan, simply leave them out.

Variations to Try

Gluten-Free Option

Easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the spaghetti with your preferred gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking instructions, as they can vary.

Adding Vegetables

For an extra nutritional boost, toss in some spinach or asparagus when adding the pasta to the lemon sauce.

Creamier Sauce

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche when adding the pasta water.

The Benefits of Eating Salmon

Salmon is not only known for its delicious taste, but also for its incredible nutritional value. It has protein and important nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy heart and overall well-being. Incorporating salmon into your eating habits can offer numerous advantages that can promote a healthier way of life.

Conclusion

This recipe combines lemon, salmon, and spaghetti for a delicious meal that you'll love making again and again.

If you love seafood pasta or want to try it for the first time, you should definitely try this simple and elegant recipe.

Remember, cooking is an art, and like any art form, feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Bon appétit!