Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine

Name: Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lb salmon fillet; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Foreign Foods | New Tastes

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors in this Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine! Every time I make it, the combination of fresh lemon and garlic with tender salmon and linguine makes my kitchen come alive with aroma. It's a dish I reserve for special occasions because it's elegant yet so simple to prepare. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up this delightful meal that impresses family and friends alike and is always met with rave reviews.

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-19T19:22:20.411Z

Making Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine always brings back fond memories of family dinners where we gathered around the table sharing stories and laughter. The brightness of the lemon against the rich salmon is a palate-pleaser for everyone. I recommend using fresh lemon juice and zest for an extra zing!

One trick I discovered is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the linguine. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and zesty flavors that brighten up any meal
Creamy garlic sauce that perfectly binds the dish together
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine is undeniably the salmon. Choosing the right salmon fillet is crucial; I recommend going for fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible for its richer flavor and superior texture. If you can only find farmed salmon, opt for a sustainable source. The cooking method will maintain its moisture and tenderness while allowing the garlic and lemon flavors to penetrate deeply.

Garlic plays a pivotal role in enhancing the dish's flavor profile. Minced garlic is ideal as it releases its oils quickly, offering a robust taste in just about a minute of sautéing. If you find fresh garlic too strong, try using roasted garlic instead, which provides a mellower sweetness. This substitution can bring a different depth to the sauce without overwhelming the dish.

Mastering the Cooking Techniques

Cooking the linguine to the correct doneness is essential for a perfect texture. Aim for 'al dente,' which means firm to the bite, typically achieved by cooking it slightly less than the package instructions suggest. This technique allows the pasta to soak up more of the sauce, ensuring a delightful coating. When draining, avoid rinsing the pasta; this preserves the starch that helps the sauce cling later.

When pan-searing the salmon, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the fillets. A good rule of thumb is to add the salmon when the oil is shimmering. This will give you that desired crispy skin and prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the salmon's color; it should transform to a nice golden hue when ready to flip. Overcooked salmon can turn dry, so it’s best to monitor it closely.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a flavorful Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine!

For the Linguine

12 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Salmon

1 lb salmon fillet
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Add a dash of love and enjoy your culinary creation!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Lemon Garlic Salmon Linguine.

Cook the Linguine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the lemon zest and juice, followed by the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.

Combine Everything

Toss the drained linguine into the skillet with the sauce. Flake the salmon and gently fold it into the pasta. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Finish with fresh parsley.

Serve hot and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it. You can also add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over low heat. This gentle method helps to retain the creamy texture of the sauce while avoiding a rubbery salmon. If the sauce seems thick after refrigeration, you can stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

Freezing this dish isn’t recommended due to the texture of the salmon and the creaminess of the sauce, which can separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze uncooked salmon separately and prepare the linguine and sauce fresh when you're ready to enjoy it.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the flavors, try adding some sautéed spinach or arugula to the pasta in the last minute of cooking; this will incorporate some greens and extra nutrients without overwhelming the dish. If you’re looking for a heat element, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

If you wish to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute the linguine with gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to consult package instructions. Whole grain or chickpea pasta can also add a nutty flavor and extra protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for linguine?

You can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace the salmon with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.