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
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2 packages (9 oz each) of refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
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Note: You can opt for spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for an earthy flavor twist.
For the Salmon
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2 pounds of salmon fillets, skin removed
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2 tablespoons of olive oil
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1 teaspoon of garlic powder
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1 teaspoon of paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce
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6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
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6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
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1 cup of heavy cream
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1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups of fresh baby spinach
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
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1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
For Garnishing
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Fresh parsley, chopped (about ½ cup)
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Additional grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
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Lemon wedges for serving
Optional Variations and Additions
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For a touch of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce.
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Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half to lighten the dish, while keeping its creamy texture.
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Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
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Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap out the salmon for grilled zucchini or mushrooms to keep it hearty.
Instructions
1. Preparing the Salmon
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to warm up.
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Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
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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.
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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
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In the same skillet, add two tablespoons of minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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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.
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some spice, and stir well to combine.
3. Adding Spinach and Tortellini
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Add two cups of fresh spinach into the sauce, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until wilted.
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While the spinach cooks, boil your tortellini according to package instructi
4. Finishing Touches
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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.
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Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately!
Notes
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Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, wild-caught salmon and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese make a big difference.
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Dietary Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free tortellini, and for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream.
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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