Creamy Asparagus and Salmon Penne with Parmesan (30 Minutes)

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This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of tender asparagus, succulent salmon, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious and creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors that everyone loves. Grab an apron and let’s get started!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, break into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender yet still crisp.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the cooked penne pasta and salmon pieces to the skillet. Gently toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
  8. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the asparagus; you want it to retain a slight crunch. Feel free to add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor if you have some handy. Customize with your favorite herbs and serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 560
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg