Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a deliciously balanced dish that brings together the richness of salmon, the silkiness of a creamy sauce, and the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Made with healthier ingredient swaps like Greek yogurt and whole grain pasta, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a decadent-tasting Italian-inspired meal.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

salmon fillets
whole grain or gluten-free pasta
olive oil
garlic cloves
onion
sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
baby spinach
low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
plain Greek yogurt (or light cream if preferred)
grated Parmesan cheese
lemon juice
Italian seasoning
salt and pepper
fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the salmon skin-side down until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer, then stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and return it to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Stir gently to combine and heat through.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use light cream or coconut milk instead of Greek yogurt for a different cream base.
Substitute arugula or kale for spinach for a more peppery or earthy taste.
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use chickpea or lentil pasta for a protein boost.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes, but fresh or cooked fillets will offer better texture and flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

What type of pasta works best?

Whole grain, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles all work well.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, prepare and store components separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Healthy & Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that fits both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With wholesome ingredients and a creamy, flavor-packed sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that proves healthy eating can be indulgent and satisfying.

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