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12 Best Sauces for Salmon Pasta (For Creamy Salmon Pasta)

Sauces are an integral part of any pasta dish, and when it comes to salmon pasta, choosing the right sauce can make all the difference.

With the right sauce, you can enhance the flavors of the salmon and elevate the dish to new heights.

In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best sauces for salmon pasta, specifically focusing on creamy sauces that complement the rich, buttery flavor of salmon.

From classic Alfredo sauce to spicy Cajun sauce and everything in between, these sauces will take your salmon pasta to the next level.

The Best Creamy Salmon Pasta

12 Best Sauces for Salmon Pasta

Salmon pasta is a delicious and easy meal to make.

But, like any dish, it can get boring if you don’t switch up the sauces.

Here are twelve amazing sauces that will take your salmon pasta from ordinary to extraordinary:

1. Creamy Alfredo Sauce

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When it comes to salmon pasta, Creamy Alfredo Sauce is a classic choice that never disappoints. Its rich, creamy texture and subtle flavors complement the salmon perfectly, making it a go-to sauce for many seafood pasta dishes.

To make Creamy Alfredo Sauce, you’ll need three key ingredients: butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The butter and cream are what give the sauce its rich, velvety texture, while the Parmesan cheese adds a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the salmon.

While Creamy Alfredo Sauce is delicious on its own, there are a few tips you can use to enhance its flavor and make it even more delicious with your salmon pasta. Adding minced garlic can give the sauce a subtle kick of flavor, while a pinch of nutmeg can add a warm, earthy note. Freshly ground black pepper is also a great addition that can help balance out the richness of the sauce.

2. Creamy Pesto Sauce

Creamy Pesto Sauce is another great option for salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, giving it a vibrant green color and a bold, herbaceous flavor.

To turn this classic sauce into a creamy delight that pairs perfectly with salmon, simply add cream. This will give the sauce a velvety texture and a luxurious richness that complements the salmon beautifully.

The flavors in Creamy Pesto Sauce complement the delicate taste of salmon perfectly. The nutty notes from the pine nuts pair well with the fish, while the garlic and Parmesan add a savory depth to the dish. Plus, the bright, fresh taste of the basil adds a burst of freshness that makes this dish feel light and summery.

3. Creamy Dill Sauce

Creamy Dill Sauce is a refreshing and flavorful option that highlights the bright, fresh flavor of dill. This herb is the star ingredient in this sauce, giving it a zesty, citrusy taste that pairs perfectly with salmon.

To make Creamy Dill Sauce, combine sour cream, lemon juice, and minced garlic with the chopped dill. The sour cream gives the sauce a tangy flavor that complements the citrusy taste of the dill, while the lemon juice adds a bright, fresh note.

The strong, bold flavor of salmon pairs well with the zesty taste of Creamy Dill Sauce. The tangy flavor of the sauce helps cut through the richness of the salmon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will have your taste buds singing.

4. Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a tangy and rich sauce that adds a burst of freshness to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a delicious combination of lemon juice, butter, and cream, giving it a rich, velvety texture and a bright, tangy flavor.

To make Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce, simply melt butter in a saucepan, then add cream and lemon juice. Stir until the sauce thickens, then add salt and pepper to taste.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding capers and parsley. The salty flavor of the capers pairs well with the tangy lemon and the richness of the butter and cream. The parsley adds a fresh, herby note that brightens up the dish and balances out the richness of the sauce.

Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a great option for those who love the bright, fresh taste of citrus.

5. Creamy Tomato Sauce

Creamy Tomato Sauce is a rich and hearty option that adds a burst of flavor to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of tomatoes, garlic, onion, and cream, giving it a thick, velvety texture and a bold, savory flavor.

To make Creamy Tomato Sauce, start by sautéing garlic and onion in olive oil until they become soft and fragrant. Add canned tomatoes, cream, and a pinch of salt and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

For an Italian twist, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce. The herbaceous notes of these herbs complement the rich, savory taste of the sauce and the delicate flavor of the salmon.

6. Creamy Cajun Sauce

Creamy Cajun Sauce is a spicy option that adds a bold kick to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, and cream, giving it a creamy texture and a bold, spicy flavor.

To make Creamy Cajun Sauce, start by sautéing diced bell peppers in a skillet until they become soft. Add the Cajun seasoning and stir until fragrant. Finally, add cream to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To balance out the heat of the Cajun seasoning, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. The nutty, savory flavor of the cheese complements the bold, spicy taste of the sauce and the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon.

7. Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a delicious option that adds earthy, savory flavors to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of mushrooms, garlic, white wine, and cream, giving it a rich, velvety texture and a bold, savory taste.

To make Creamy Mushroom Sauce, start by sautéing sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in olive oil until they become soft and browned. Add white wine to the pan and let it reduce. Finally, add cream and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary. The herbaceous notes of these herbs complement the earthy, savory taste of the mushrooms and the delicate flavor of the salmon.

8. Creamy Tarragon Sauce

Creamy Tarragon Sauce is a unique option that adds a burst of flavor to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of fresh tarragon, white wine, and cream, giving it a bright, herbaceous flavor and a velvety texture.

To make Creamy Tarragon Sauce, start by sautéing minced shallots in butter until they become soft and fragrant. Add white wine to the pan and let it reduce. Finally, add cream and chopped tarragon to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

The delicate, herbaceous flavor of Creamy Tarragon Sauce complements the delicate taste of salmon perfectly. Its bright, fresh taste adds a burst of flavor to the dish without overpowering the fish.

9. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Sauce

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Sauce is a nutritious and flavorful option that adds a burst of green to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream, giving it a creamy texture and a bold, herbaceous flavor.

To make Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in butter until it becomes fragrant. Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the pan and let them cook down. Add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding more minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice. The garlic adds a savory depth to the sauce, while the lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a tangy note that complements the salmon.

10. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce is a Mediterranean-inspired option that adds a burst of sunshine to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and cream, giving it a rich, velvety texture and a bold, savory flavor.

To make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until it becomes fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chopped basil to the pan and let them cook down. Add cream to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding chopped olives or capers. The salty, briny flavor of these ingredients pairs well with the savory taste of the sun-dried tomatoes and the delicate flavor of the salmon.

11. Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright and tangy option that adds a burst of freshness to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of lemon juice, minced garlic, and cream, giving it a zesty, citrusy flavor and a creamy texture.

To make Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in butter until it becomes fragrant. Add cream and lemon juice to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese. The nutty, savory flavor of the cheese complements the bright, tangy taste of the lemon and the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon.

12. Creamy Vodka Sauce

Creamy Vodka Sauce is a delicious option that adds a burst of flavor to your salmon pasta. This sauce is a blend of tomato sauce, cream, and vodka, giving it a creamy texture and a bold, savory flavor.

To make Creamy Vodka Sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until it becomes fragrant. Add tomato sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then, add vodka and let it cook for a few minutes to burn off the alcohol. Finally, add cream to the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. The spicy kick of the red pepper flakes complements the bold, savory taste of the sauce and the delicate flavor of the salmon.

FAQs

Which is the best sauce for salmon?

The best sauce for salmon is subjective, but a popular choice is a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a delicious blend of cream, lemon juice, garlic, and pepper that complements the salmon’s flavor.

What kind of pasta goes with salmon?

Many pasta shapes work well with salmon, but for a creamy salmon pasta recipe, opt for pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Their structure allows them to hold the sauce better and deliver a delicious bite.

What goes well with salmon?

Salmon pairs nicely with various side dishes, including roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed broccoli. For a more indulgent option, consider a creamy garlic sauce or lemon pepper cream sauce to enhance the flavor.

What to put on top of salmon?

To elevate your salmon dish, add a splash of lemon juice, a sprinkle of pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. For a more decadent option, consider a creamy sauce or even a wild-caught icon to indicate the use of sustainably sourced fish in your recipe.

Can I substitute milk for cream in my salmon pasta sauce recipe?

Yes, you can substitute milk for cream in your salmon pasta sauce recipe. To achieve a similar consistency, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. This will result in a lighter version of creamy salmon pasta without sacrificing flavor.

What are some healthy side dishes to serve with my salmon pasta?

Serve your salmon pasta with a green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal. For additional flavor and texture, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds.

How can I make a lighter version of creamy salmon pasta without sacrificing flavor?

To make a lighter version of creamy salmon pasta, use milk instead of cream and thicken the sauce with a bit of flour or cornstarch. You can also add extra lemon juice and pepper for more flavor.

What are some easy pasta recipes that incorporate salmon as a main ingredient?

Some easy pasta recipes with salmon include creamy garlic sauce pasta, lemon pepper pasta, and pasta with a simple olive oil and garlic sauce. Experiment with different pasta shapes and ingredients to find your favorite combination.

How much olive oil should I use when cooking the salmon for my pasta dish?

When cooking salmon for your pasta dish, use about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help the salmon cook evenly and prevent it from sticking to the pan.

How do I know when my salmon pasta is done?

When your salmon pasta is done, the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The pasta should be cooked al dente, meaning it is still firm when bitten. To ensure the pasta doesn’t become overcooked, reserve some pasta water to help adjust the sauce’s consistency and cook the pasta for a minute or two less than the package’s information suggests.

What is an easy pasta recipe that features a delicious cream sauce as the star ingredient?

One easy and delicious pasta recipe that features a cream sauce is creamy salmon pasta with spaghetti. To make this dish, start by cooking wild-caught salmon in a pan with some olive oil until it’s opaque and flakes easily. Set the salmon aside and cook spaghetti according to the package instructions, reserving some pasta water for later.

While the spaghetti cooks, prepare the cream sauce by sautéing garlic and onions in a pan until they’re soft and fragrant. Add heavy cream, a splash of white wine, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it to the cream sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Flake the cooked salmon and gently mix it into the creamy spaghetti.

Serve your creamy salmon pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an indulgent and satisfying meal.

salmon and pasta

12 Best Sauces for Salmon Pasta (Creamy Salmon Pasta)

Discover a variety of mouthwatering sauces for salmon pasta that will elevate your next meal. From creamy delights to zesty infusions, find the perfect sauce to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests with these flavorful options.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 369 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Hollandaise Sauce
  • Pesto Sauce
  • Soy Ginger Sauce
  • Honey Mustard Sauce
  • Dill Sauce
  • Lemon Caper Butter Sauce
  • Horseradish Cream Sauce with Roasted Garlic
  • Red Wine Vinaigrette
  • Avocado Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pick a sauce from this list to serve with your delicious meal.
  • Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe.
  • Be ready to enjoy your meal in no time!
Keyword what sauce goes with salmon and pasta
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Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.