Creamy Salmon and Broccoli Pasta Delight
This Creamy Salmon and Broccoli Pasta Delight is a quick, nutritious, and delicious one-dish meal that the whole family will love! Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender pasta with flaked salmon and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Whether you use leftover salmon, smoked salmon, or freshly baked fillets, this dish remains satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy the versatility by swapping in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes. With a sprinkle of fresh chives and a generous topping of parmesan, this meal is sure to become a weeknight favorite that kids and adults alike will cherish.
6
Servings
400
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta
1 lb (Any style (penne, corkscrew, or spaghetti) as per preference)
Cooked Salmon
1 lb (Flaked into bite-sized pieces)
Broccoli Florets
1 lb (Cut into small trees)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (For cooking)
Butter
2 tablespoons (Cut into chunks)
Half-and-Half
1/4 cup (Added to the sauce)
Garlic Cloves
4 (Chopped)
Low-Fat Ricotta Cheese
1 cup (For creaminess)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
To taste (For serving)
Salt
To taste
Pepper
To taste
Fresh Chives
2 tablespoons (Snipped (optional))
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cut the broccoli into small florets and cook them for about 5 minutes until they're bright green and tender. Drain the broccoli and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2
In the same pot of boiling water, add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
3
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Once melted, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 4 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
4
Pour in the half-and-half and stir gently. Season with a pinch of salt, and allow the mixture to warm through without boiling.
5
Add the cooked broccoli, flaked salmon, and drained pasta into the saucepan. Gently toss everything together so the pasta and veggies are coated in the creamy sauce.
6
Stir in the ricotta cheese, blending until well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as necessary.
7
If desired, add fresh snipped chives for an extra layer of flavor and stir gently to combine.
8
Serve the pasta immediately, generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
40g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Salmon and Broccoli Pasta Delight?
It is a quick, nutritious one-dish meal that combines pasta, flaked salmon, and broccoli in a rich, creamy garlic sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
You can use any style of pasta you prefer, such as penne, corkscrew, or spaghetti.
How much salmon is required?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of cooked salmon, flaked into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use different types of salmon?
Yes, you can use leftover salmon, smoked salmon, or freshly baked fillets.
How do I prepare the broccoli?
Cut the broccoli into small florets and cook them in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes until tender.
Why should I run the broccoli under cold water?
Running the broccoli under cold water stops the cooking process, ensuring it stays bright green and doesn't become mushy.
How much garlic is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 4 chopped garlic cloves.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made from a combination of butter, olive oil, garlic, half-and-half, and low-fat ricotta cheese.
How long should I sauté the garlic?
Sauté the chopped garlic for about 4 minutes until it is fragrant and slightly golden.
Should I boil the half-and-half?
No, you should allow the half-and-half to warm through without letting it come to a boil.
How is the ricotta cheese incorporated?
The ricotta cheese is stirred in at the end until it is well incorporated into the pasta and sauce.
What can I use as a garnish?
You can use fresh snipped chives and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is described as a family-friendly, kid-approved meal.
How much pasta is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 lb of pasta.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, the recipe is versatile and allows you to swap in your favorite vegetables.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking after draining?
Drizzle the drained pasta with a little bit of olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.
What is the recommended cooking method for the pasta?
Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to the package directions until it is al dente.
How much ricotta cheese is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of low-fat ricotta cheese.
What oils and fats are used for cooking?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
Are the chives mandatory?
No, the 2 tablespoons of fresh snipped chives are optional for added flavor.
How should the salmon be prepared if using fresh fillets?
Fresh fillets should be cooked and then flaked into bite-sized pieces before being added to the sauce.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is described as a satisfying one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights.
How do I season the dish?
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning after adding the ricotta cheese.
What type of Parmesan cheese is suggested?
Grated Parmesan cheese is used for serving, added to your personal taste.
What is the total fat content per serving?
There are 15 grams of fat in each serving.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
The dish contains 40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much broccoli is needed?
The recipe uses 1 lb of broccoli florets.
How should the dish be served?
The pasta should be served immediately while warm, topped with Parmesan cheese.