Introduction:
Imagine a dish that combines the creamy, indulgent texture of Alfredo sauce with the rich flavors of salmon and the light, crisp taste of shrimp. That’s what you get with this Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo, a dish that elevates the traditional pasta offering to a gourmet level. Ideal for a special occasion or a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe melds the heartiness of seafood with the smoothness of a classic Alfredo, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients Overview:
To achieve the best flavor in this dish, it’s crucial to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh, skinless salmon fillets and peeled, deveined shrimp are essential for the seafood components, ensuring they cook perfectly and infuse the pasta with their natural, oceanic flavors. The base of the sauce is a combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which melds together to create a rich and creamy texture that beautifully coats the pasta.
Ingredient List:
- Salmon fillets: 1 lb, skinless
- Shrimp: 1/2 lb, peeled and deveined
- Fettuccine pasta: 8 oz
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: for garnish, chopped
Preparation Method:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season salmon with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place salmon in the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and easily flaked with a fork.
- Remove from the skillet, flake into large chunks, and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and return to a simmer.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta, salmon, and shrimp back into the skillet.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Heat through, ensuring everything is warm.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
Health Benefits:
This Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their heart-health and anti-inflammatory properties, while shrimp offers a high protein content with a low calorie count. Together, they create a dish that’s as good for you as it is delicious.
Wine Pairing:
A dish as rich and creamy as this Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine. Consider a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc, which will cut through the richness of the sauce and complement the seafood flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
To balance the richness of the Alfredo, serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon. These lighter sides will help cleanse the palate and make the meal feel more complete.
Conclusion:
Creamy Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of pasta dishes. By incorporating elements of the sea, this recipe not only enhances the flavor profile but also the nutritional value, making it a superb choice for anyone looking to impress at the dining table without compromising on health. So, the next time you want to elevate your meal to something truly special, consider this sumptuous seafood Alfredo.