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Lemon garlic salmon with spaghetti is the perfect solution for those weeknight dinners when you crave something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a delicious way to elevate your dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lemon garlic salmon spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic complement the rich salmon, while the spaghetti provides a comforting base.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon and garlic brings out the best in salmon.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fresh ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect for a casual family dinner or a date night at home.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon with Spaghetti
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the lemon juice, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated.
- Flake the cooked salmon and gently mix it into the spaghetti. Add fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Toss again to combine everything.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
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To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. For a crispier skin, sear the salmon longer on the skin side before flipping. If you prefer more lemon flavor, add additional lemon juice or zest to taste.
Easy Variations
- Swap the salmon for shrimp or chicken for a different protein option.
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach to the spaghetti for extra veggies.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
What to Serve With It
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread for a comforting side.
- Steamed asparagus or broccoli for added greens.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season salmon with salt and pepper, cook skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Remove salmon, add remaining olive oil and garlic to the skillet, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add cooked spaghetti, lemon juice, zest, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
- Flake salmon and mix it into the spaghetti along with parsley and red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes: For a crisper skin, sear longer on the skin side. Adjust lemon flavor to your preference.
