How to Make Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo: A Creamy and Luxurious Seafood Pasta
Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. This creamy, decadent dish is a perfect combination of tender salmon, succulent shrimp, and rich Alfredo sauce, all tossed with fettuccine pasta. The dish strikes a perfect balance between the lightness of seafood and the richness of a cream-based sauce, making it a restaurant-worthy meal that you can easily prepare at home.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the pasta to making the Alfredo sauce, cooking the seafood, and assembling everything for a complete, flavorful dish. Not only is it easy to make, but the combination of salmon and shrimp with the creamy sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
- 2 salmon fillets, skin removed: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the salmon adds a delicate flavor and luxurious texture to the dish.
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Shrimp provides a sweet, tender bite, complementing the salmon.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: Fettuccine is the classic pasta choice for Alfredo dishes, offering a wide surface to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to cook the salmon and shrimp.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth of flavor to the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce, giving it a rich, velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for a cheesy, creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup baby spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning the seafood and sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, bright garnish for the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by preparing the pasta. Cook the 12 oz of fettuccine according to the package instructions in salted boiling water. For the best texture, cook the pasta until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain the pasta and set it aside. If necessary, drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the seafood and sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon Fillets
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the 2 salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it’s opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the 1/2 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the salmon.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Once the garlic is sautéed, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine the cream with the garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. As the sauce simmers, stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Next, add 1 cup of baby spinach to the skillet. Stir the spinach into the sauce until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The spinach not only adds color but also a mild flavor that complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Seafood
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked fettuccine back into the skillet, tossing it in the Alfredo sauce until the pasta is fully coated. Gently flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and add it, along with the shrimp, back into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the seafood is evenly distributed throughout the pasta and sauce.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, plate the Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo while it’s still hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Pair this dish with a light green salad, dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance out the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a toasted baguette also makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo
Tip 1: Use Fresh Ingredients
Whenever possible, use fresh salmon and shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Tip 2: Don’t Overcook the Seafood
Salmon and shrimp are delicate and can overcook quickly. Keep an eye on them while cooking and remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.
Tip 3: Adjust the Creaminess
For a lighter Alfredo sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. If you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to add an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Tip 4: Customize with Add-Ins
Feel free to customize the dish with additional ingredients like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. These add-ins will enhance the flavor and give the dish a personal touch.
Tip 5: Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo dishes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Linguine, spaghetti, or even penne work well in this recipe.
2. Can I substitute the salmon or shrimp with other proteins?
Absolutely. You can substitute the salmon with a different fish like cod or halibut. Similarly, you can replace the shrimp with scallops or even chicken breast if you prefer.
3. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. For the Parmesan, you can use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta and seafood.
5. What if I don’t have baby spinach?
You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or arugula, or simply omit the greens if you prefer.
Conclusion
Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful, restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the tender seafood, creating a luxurious pasta dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a satisfying weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color!