Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne

🍝 Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne

Rich, savory, and irresistibly creamy—this dish combines tender salmon, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce over penne. Perfect for a cozy yet elegant dinner!

🧾 Ingredients

For the Pasta & Sauce:

8 oz penne pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup baby spinach, chopped

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt & pepper, to taste

1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

For the Salmon:

2 skinless salmon fillets, cut into chunks

1 tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp paprika

Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh basil leaves 🌿

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

Boil penne in salted water according to package directions.

Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Sear the Salmon:

Season salmon chunks with salt, pepper, and paprika.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Sear salmon for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.

Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce:

In the same skillet, sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer.

Add Parmesan and stir until smooth and melted.

4️⃣ Build the Tuscan Base:

Stir in Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach.

Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld.

5️⃣ Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Toss the cooked penne into the sauce.

Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches desired consistency.

6️⃣ Add the Salmon:

Gently return the seared salmon chunks to the skillet.

Let it all warm through for 1–2 minutes.

🍽️ Serve:

Garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately with warm bread or a crisp side salad.