Zesty Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce Recipe

Craving a delightful salmon & shrimp penne that bursts with oceanic flavors and creamy textures?

Mediterranean kitchens inspired this incredibly simple seafood pasta masterpiece.

Delicate proteins nestle among tender spinach-infused noodles, creating a symphony of tastes.

Garlic whispers its aromatic magic through each carefully crafted bite.

Home cooks adore how quickly this elegant dish comes together without complicated techniques.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in transforming ordinary weeknight meals into memorable dining experiences.

Let’s unlock the secrets of this restaurant-quality recipe that will impress everyone at your table.

Variations to Try with Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Mediterranean Melody: Replace salmon and shrimp with grilled chicken and add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Spicy Ocean Fusion: Incorporate red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to create a spicy kick, then top with fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Green Dream: Swap seafood with roasted zucchini and mushrooms, using vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter, plant-based alternative.
• Creamy Pesto Escape: Blend homemade basil pesto into the sauce and sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for a rich, herbaceous transformation.

Suggested Pairings for Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the seafood's delicate flavors and cuts through the creamy sauce's richness.
• Create Fresh Side Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the pasta's richness and add a zesty, peppery contrast to the dish.
• Enhance with Crusty Bread: Serve warm, rustic sourdough or French baguette slices to soak up the garlic spinach cream sauce and provide a delightful textural element.
• Select Chilled Citrus Sparkling Water: Offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing beverage that highlights the seafood's freshness and provides a light, effervescent accompaniment.

How to Store Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Pack the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
• Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to restore moisture.

FAQs for Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon and shrimp. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper texture and prevent excess water.

• Is this dish suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

Unfortunately, this recipe contains heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which are dairy products. You would need to substitute with lactose-free alternatives or plant-based cream.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, choose whole wheat pasta, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to increase nutritional value.

• What type of salmon works best for this recipe?

Fresh wild-caught salmon or Atlantic salmon are ideal. Choose a firm, fresh fillet that will hold its shape during cooking and provide the best flavor.

Reasons to Love Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Savor Seafood Elegance: Indulge in a luxurious blend of salmon and shrimp that transforms an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience.
• Conquer Quick Cooking: Master this restaurant-quality dish with simple steps that require minimal kitchen skills and deliver maximum flavor.
• Boost Nutritional Power: Packed with protein from seafood and vitamins from spinach, this recipe delivers a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied and energized.
• Create Family-Friendly Feast: Enjoy a crowd-pleasing dinner that appeals to both adults and kids, making mealtime a delightful shared moment.

Ingredients List for Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Salmon: Fresh fish that adds rich protein and delicate flavor to the pasta dish.
• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that provides a sweet and tender complement to the salmon.
• Penne Pasta: Classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Create a smooth and luxurious base that binds the pasta and seafood together.
• Spinach: Adds vibrant green color and nutritious leafy texture to the dish.
• Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic foundation for the sauce.

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor and cooking the seafood perfectly.

How to Prepare Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

Step 1: Boil Delicious Pasta

Cook the penne in salted water until perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain and let sit ready for the sauce.

Step 2: Create Fragrant Garlic Base

Warm olive oil in a large skillet and sauté minced garlic until it releases its aromatic magic and turns slightly golden.

Step 3: Sear Seafood Delight

• Salmon fillet pieces
• Fresh shrimp

Cook the seafood until it turns opaque and is fully cooked through, developing a beautiful golden exterior.

Step 4: Wilt Vibrant Greens

Toss fresh spinach leaves into the skillet and stir until they collapse and become tender, creating a lush green backdrop for the seafood.

Step 5: Blend Creamy Sauce

Pour in rich heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring each pasta piece gets coated with the luxurious sauce and seafood.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Transfer the steaming pasta to serving plates, making sure to distribute the salmon, shrimp, and spinach evenly. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the incredible flavors.

Pro Tips for Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

• Select fresh, high-quality salmon and shrimp for the most vibrant flavor and tender texture.
• Use whole wheat penne for added nutritional value and a nutty undertone to the dish.
• Quickly cook seafood to prevent overcooking, which can make salmon and shrimp tough and rubbery.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, healthier alternative that still provides creamy richness.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick that complements the seafood's delicate taste.