Dive into Deliciousness: Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo Tonight!
Welcome to your new weeknight favorite! If you’re looking to infuse some luxury into your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen, our Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo is a perfect choice. This dish combines the rich, velvety texture of Alfredo sauce with the healthy goodness of broccoli and the decadent flavor of salmon. Ideal for those who love gourmet meals but have a busy schedule, this recipe brings a restaurant-quality meal to your table in just 40 minutes!
Why This Recipe Works
Our Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the Alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with the tender yet crisp broccoli and the flaky, rich salmon. It’s a complete meal that includes your protein, veggies, and a fulfilling base of fettuccini pasta. Plus, it’s flexible enough to allow for various substitutions and additions to cater to your dietary needs or preferences.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Air fryer for cooking the salmon (Alternatively, you can use a baking sheet if you prefer to oven-bake the salmon)
- Large skillet for the sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients
Ingredients and Simple Swaps
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccini pasta (substitute with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or gluten-free options)
Salmon
- 1 pound salmon, cut into bites (chicken or shrimp can also be used as a great alternative)
Broccoli
- 1 pound fresh broccoli, cut into pieces (try substituting with spinach or asparagus for a different taste)
Alfredo Sauce
- Traditional ingredients like heavy cream, parmesan, and cream cheese form the base of our Alfredo sauce. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half and low-fat cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Add broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving some pasta water for the sauce.
- Prepare the Salmon: While the pasta cooks, season your salmon pieces and cook them in an air fryer or oven until perfectly flaky.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic in butter, then blend in the cream and cheeses to create a luxurious Alfredo sauce. Thin the sauce with the reserved pasta water to your desired consistency.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the pasta and broccoli with the sauce, top with salmon, and garnish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Alfredo
- Consistency is Key: Adjust the thickness of your Alfredo sauce by adding more or less reserved pasta water.
- Season Well: Don’t forget to season your salmon well before cooking to enhance its flavor.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh parmesan for the sauce; it melts better and offers a superior taste to pre-shredded cheese.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a little milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, to complement the creamy sauce and rich salmon. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling mineral water with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Absolutely! Substitute the cream and cheeses with your favorite plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Q: What can I use instead of salmon? A: This recipe works well with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for kids? A: Yes, it’s a kid-friendly meal. The creamy sauce and familiar ingredients like pasta and cheese are usually a hit with children.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo is more than just a meal; it’s a statement of fine dining at home. Ready to try it out? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and experiences with this recipe on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, tips, and culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
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Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Dive into the creamy goodness of our Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo tonight! 
Ingredients
Pasta
8 ounces fettuccini pasta
1 pound fresh broccoli, cut into small pieces
Salmon
1 pound salmon, pat dry, skin off, cut into 1-inch bites
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
Alfredo
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy whipping cream
1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, shredded, plus extra for garnish
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook al dente, according to package directions (8-10 minutes).
In the final 3-4 minutes of boiling the pasta, add the broccoli. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.
Salmon
3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the salmon. Preheat air fryer to 390°F. Mix salmon bites with olive oil and blackened seasoning, then air fry for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
Alfredo
4. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, cooking until softened, then add garlic for one more minute.
Mix in heavy cream, parmesan, cream cheese, reserved pasta water, blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy. Add pasta and broccoli, tossing to coat. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water as desired.
Top with salmon bites and serve garnished with additional parmesan and parsley
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes