Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne

Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne is a luxurious yet comforting dish that brings together tender, pan-seared salmon and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a silky garlic Alfredo sauce. Inspired by classic Tuscan flavors, this recipe features sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a bold and creamy meal that feels gourmet but is simple enough for a home kitchen. It’s perfect for special dinners, family meals, or when you want something impressive without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

Salmon fillets: 4 (skinless or skin-on)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Paprika: ½ teaspoon
Italian seasoning: ½ teaspoon

For the Alfredo Penne

Penne pasta: 12 oz (340 g)
Butter: 3 tablespoons
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced): 5 cloves
Heavy cream: 1½ cups
Milk: ½ cup
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): 1 cup
Sun-dried tomatoes (sliced): ½ cup
Baby spinach: 2 cups
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Red chili flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)

Garnish

Fresh parsley or basil
Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon in the pan and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Tuscan Flavors

Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors blend beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Bring Everything Together

Place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the salmon absorbs the Tuscan flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs well with:

Garlic bread
Roasted vegetables
A crisp green salad

Tips for Best Results

Use fresh Parmesan for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese may not melt well.
Do not overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but remain moist.
For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with milk or chicken broth.
Want more protein? Add shrimp along with the salmon.