Description
Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany with every bite. Tuscan Salmon Tortellini in Garlic Sauce perfectly marries rich, flaky salmon with pillowy pasta and a buttery, aromatic sauce that envelops your senses. This mouthwatering combination is not only a feast for the palate but also a stunning centerpiece on any dinner table.
Cooking this delightful dish can be a canvas for creativity. Feel free to switch up the salmon with shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian twist. For those looking to elevate the flavors, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of color and taste.
To achieve a restaurant-quality result, the key lies in mastering the timing—ensure your tortellini is al dente before adding it to the sauce. With these tips in hand, you’re ready to create a memorable culinary experience that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Tuscan Salmon Tortellini in Garlic Sauce
This recipe is designed to serve 8–10 people, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or family dinners. Below are the ingredients you will need, organized into convenient categories for your preparation ease.
For the Tortellini
2 packages (9 oz each) of refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
Note: You can opt for spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for an earthy flavor twist.
For the Salmon
2 pounds of salmon fillets, skin removed
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce
6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups of fresh baby spinach
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
For Garnishing
Fresh parsley, chopped (about ½ cup)
Additional grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
Lemon wedges for serving
Optional Variations and Additions
For a touch of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce.
Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half to lighten the dish, while keeping its creamy texture.
Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap out the salmon for grilled zucchini or mushrooms to keep it hearty.
Instructions
1. Preparing the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to warm up.
Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
Cook the salmon for about 4 to 5 minutes without moving it. Once golden brown, flip the salmon carefully and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily.
Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
2. Preparing the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add two tablespoons of minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in one cup of heavy cream and stir gently. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some spice, and stir well to combine.
3. Adding Spinach and Tortellini
Add two cups of fresh spinach into the sauce, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until wilted.
While the spinach cooks, boil your tortellini according to package instructi
4. Finishing Touches
Flake the reserved salmon into large pieces and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together lightly to incorporate the salmon without breaking it apart.
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately!
Notes
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, wild-caught salmon and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese make a big difference.
Dietary Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free tortellini, and for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream.
Herb Variations: You can swap basil or parsley for other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Tuscan Salmon, Garlic Tortellini, Salmon Pasta, Italian Tortellini, Garlic Sauce, Salmon Recipes