Pasta dishes are versatile and universally loved, offering a comforting meal option that pleases diverse palates. The combination of salmon and shrimp in a penne pasta dish brings together the richness of seafood with the creaminess of a Parmesan-laden sauce. This recipe for Salmon and Shrimp Penne Pasta is not just satisfying but also impressively simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
To recreate this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients, measured to ensure a perfect balance of flavors:
- 8 oz Penne Pasta: The base of the dish, penne’s tube shape holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb Salmon Fillet (skinless, cubed): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, providing a tender bite.
- 1/2 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds a delightful seafood twist.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For sautéing, adds a subtle, fruity undertone.
- 2 Cloves Garlic (minced): Provides a sharp, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates a thick, luxurious sauce.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated): Infuses a nutty, salty flavor into the sauce.
- 1 cup Fresh Spinach: Adds color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: For seasoning.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Offers a fresh, herbal finish.
Directions and Preparation Method
Preparing this dish involves a series of simple steps that lead to a rich and creamy pasta dish:
- Cooking the Pasta:
- Boil the penne pasta as per the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, preserving a bit of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
- Preparing the Seafood:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Add the cubed salmon to the pan, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until each side is golden and the fish is cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside with the salmon.
- Creating the Sauce:
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream to the pan, scraping up any bits that have stuck to the bottom.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach to the sauce, stirring until the leaves wilt and integrate into the sauce.
- Combining Ingredients:
- Return the cooked salmon and shrimp to the pan, gently folding them into the sauce to avoid breaking the salmon.
- Add the cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting according to taste.
- Garnishing and Serving:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness right before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative? A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or a full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version, though the sauce might not be as thick.
Q: What can I serve with this pasta dish? A: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the creamy sauce and seafood flavors.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently, adding a little milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and the seafood ahead of time, then simply cook the pasta and assemble before serving to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
This Salmon and Shrimp Penne Pasta recipe encapsulates the essence of a hearty, flavorful meal that is both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Its creamy sauce, combined with the luxurious textures of salmon and shrimp, makes it a fulfilling meal that’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a gathering of friends and family, this pasta dish promises satisfaction in every forkful.