Indulging in a luxurious seafood pasta dish is one of life’s finest pleasures, and with this Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo recipe, you can enjoy a taste of culinary bliss right in your own home. This creamy, rich, and flavorful dish is inspired by Italian-American cuisine, making it a perfect option for a special dinner or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The succulent salmon and shrimp meld beautifully with the velvety Alfredo sauce, all served over perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its balance of flavors and the effortless elegance it brings to the table. The combination of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and a hint of lemon creates a deliciously satisfying experience. Not only is it a feast for the palate, but it also provides essential nutrients thanks to the healthy fats found in salmon and shrimp. Plus, this dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
As you dive into this Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo, you’re not just treating your taste buds—you’re also creating memorable moments with family and friends. So let’s explore the details of this remarkable dish that promises to delight anyone who sits around your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
- Luxurious Flavor: The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with the rich flavors of salmon and shrimp makes for an exceptionally indulgent dish.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Rich in Nutrients: Seafood is known for its health benefits, enriching your meal with essential omega-3 fatty acids and proteins.
- Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it a great choice for entertaining.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite veggies or spices, creating your own take on this classic recipe.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Here are some tips to set up an efficient workspace:
- Cooking Tools: You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for sautéing the seafood, and a mixing spoon. Having a pasta strainer on hand will make draining the fettuccine easier too.
- Prep Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before cooking. Chop the parsley, mince the garlic, and ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined.
- Stay Organized: Keep a clean workspace and manage your time well. Start with the fettuccine so it can cook while you prepare the sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, as it will help achieve the desired creamy consistency for your sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
While the fettuccine is cooking, season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they flake easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. When cool, flake the salmon into large chunks.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside along with the salmon.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet used for the shrimp, pour in the heavy cream and chicken or seafood broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, mixing to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once your pasta is drained, add it directly to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss everything well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, gently fold in the chunky pieces of salmon and shrimp, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the dish. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the shrimp with scallops or lobster for a different seafood profile. You can also make this dish with only salmon if you prefer.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like crushed red pepper for a bit of heat or some Italian seasoning for added flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For the best texture, be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Cook them just until they are fully pink.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese will melt better than pre-packaged cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the Alfredo.
Tips
- Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can enhance the overall flavor.
- Make it ahead! You can prepare the sauce and seafood earlier in the day. Just combine and heat when you’re ready to serve.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
- Protein: About 30 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 700 mg
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can substitute with penne, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten the recipe, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to bulk up the meal without adding many calories.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the seafood ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you are ready to serve to ensure the best texture.
What can I serve with Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo?
Consider pairing this rich dish with a fresh garden salad or some steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a fantastic complement to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo recipe brings together the richness of creamy pasta and the indulgent flavors of seafood for a dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, it’s a meal that celebrates the joy of cooking and enjoying food with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to make this for your next dinner party or family gathering. Feel free to experiment with variations and make it your own! Remember to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments, or let us know how your version turned out. Happy cooking and bon appétit!
Print
Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in a creamy, rich, and flavorful salmon and shrimp Alfredo that blends perfectly with fettuccine pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, as it will help achieve the desired creamy consistency for your sauce.
- While the fettuccine is cooking, season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they flake easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. When cool, flake the salmon into large chunks.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside along with the salmon.
- In the same skillet used for the shrimp, pour in the heavy cream and chicken or seafood broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, mixing to combine all the flavors.
- Once your pasta is drained, add it directly to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss everything well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, gently fold in the chunky pieces of salmon and shrimp, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the dish. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot!
Notes
Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can enhance the overall flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 30 g