If you have a craving for a dish that feels both luxurious and fresh, the Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant recipe blends tender salmon and succulent shrimp with a luscious cream sauce, perfectly enveloping al dente fettuccine. Each bite bursts with flavor and color, offering a delightful seafood experience that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe brings warmth and joy to your dinner table with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity yet thoughtful combination of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make the dish so irresistible.
- Salmon fillets: Fresh, flaky salmon adds rich flavor and hearty texture to anchor the dish.
- Shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp lend a sweet, tender bite that complements the salmon perfectly.
- Fettuccine pasta: Thick, ribbon-like pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully while offering satisfying chew.
- Heavy cream: Creates the silky base of the sauce, making every strand of pasta luxuriously coated.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, savory depth and helps thicken the sauce just right.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a hint of sharpness.
- Olive oil and butter: The perfect duo for searing seafood and building layers of flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Bring a subtle kick and balanced heat to awaken the palate.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
How to Make Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your fettuccine according to the package directions until it is perfectly al dente. This step is vital because the pasta needs to have a firm bite to stand up to the creamy sauce and seafood without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain and set aside, ready to be tossed in the luscious sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat for a buttery, flavorful base. Season your salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You want a golden crust that locks in juices, making the salmon tender and juicy inside. Once beautifully cooked, set the salmon aside but keep it close—it will star in your dish’s final presentation.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet keeps all those delicious browned bits and flavors from the salmon. Add your shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their natural sweetness and tenderness. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep them with the salmon.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Now for the magic: add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about a minute until it fills the air with fragrant warmth. Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. These ingredients will thicken the sauce into a silky, rich coating perfect for the pasta and seafood. Don’t rush—give it a couple minutes to reach that ideal consistency.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and introduce the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together so the pasta is thoroughly coated in that creamy sauce, and the shrimp get perfectly warmed through. This step unites all your ingredients into a harmonious medley of textures and flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta right away for maximum enjoyment, topping each serving with a seared salmon fillet, so it remains the star of the dish. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal aroma. Now, you’re ready to dig into the creamy, flavorful delight that is the Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a fresh, green brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. For a little extra zing, a twist of lemon zest or a light drizzle of olive oil can elevate the dish even further. These simple touches make the pasta feel restaurant-worthy and inviting.
Side Dishes
This seafood pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, vibrant sides. Consider a chilled green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess, or some roasted asparagus seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Garlic bread also works beautifully if you want a comforting, carb-loaded side to soak up any remaining sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colors and textures of the shrimp and salmon. You can also divide portions in individual ramekins as a fancy starter. Garnishing with edible flowers or finely grated lemon zest can add a pop of color that’s visually stunning and very inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind the sauce may thicken as it cools, so give it a gentle stir with a splash of milk or cream when reheating for a fresh texture.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta dish is possible but not ideal because the cream sauce can separate when thawed. If you must freeze, store the pasta and seafood separately from the sauce to maintain quality, and thaw them slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, use a low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Reheating slowly ensures the salmon and shrimp stay tender and the pasta remains perfectly coated in that dreamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon and shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor in your Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, though the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Coconut cream is another dairy-free option that adds an interesting twist, but it changes the flavor profile.
How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp and salmon?
Cook the shrimp until just pink and opaque—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes—and sear the salmon until it is golden but still slightly translucent in the middle. They will continue to cook a bit when combined with the pasta and sauce, so pulling them off the heat on time is key.
Can I add other vegetables to make it more “Primavera”?
Yes! Feel free to toss in sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, peas, or cherry tomatoes for bursts of color and freshness. Adding vegetables elevates the primavera aspect and adds extra nutrition and texture.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine is ideal due to its wide, flat shape that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. However, linguine or tagliatelle are great alternatives if you don’t have fettuccine on hand.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe that brings soul and celebration to any meal. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for company, combining fresh seafood with a rich, flavorful sauce that never fails to wow. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every luscious bite as much as I do—it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true!
Print
Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Fettuccine Primavera Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Pasta recipe is a delightful seafood dish featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets and succulent shrimp tossed in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, served over al dente fettuccine pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an elegant yet simple meal perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear each fillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the salmon.
- Make the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss in the cooked fettuccine pasta, making sure everything is well coated with the creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Plate the pasta mixture and top with the seared salmon fillets. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less thick.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon or shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice hint of heat; adjust according to your preference.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
