Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the Ultimate Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Pasta

There are dinner recipes, and then there are culinary experiences. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Pasta falls firmly into the latter category. Imagine succulent, pan-seared Atlantic salmon with a perfectly crisp crust, nestled alongside tender, buttery shrimp, all resting on a bed of silky fettuccine bathed in a velvety garlic cream sauce.

This dish is the personification of “approachable luxury.” It brings the high-end sophistication of a coastal Italian bistro straight to your kitchen table. The brightness of fresh lemon zest cuts through the richness of the heavy cream, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and vibrant. Whether you are looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal, this recipe is your new gold standard for seafood pasta.

The Essential Ingredients

Fresh Salmon Fillets: The star of the show. Provides a savory crust and tender flakes of premium protein.
Jumbo Shrimp: Adds secondary sweetness and a succulent texture to every bite.
Fettuccine or Tagliatelle: The wide surface area is the perfect vessel for clinging onto the luxurious cream sauce.
Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, providing unmistakable richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
Fresh Garlic: Minced finely to infuse the butter with pungent, aromatic depth.
Fresh Lemon: Both juice and zest are used to create natural flavor enhancement and balance the fats.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated to add a salty, nutty finish and natural thickening power.
Unsalted Butter: Essential for achieving that decadent, golden sear on the seafood.
Fresh Parsley: A final flourish that adds earthy freshness and vibrant color.

Step-by-Step Culinary Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until it is just al dente. Pro Tip: Reserve at least one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; this is liquid gold for adjusting your sauce consistency later.

2. Sear the Seafood

Season your salmon fillets and shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove and repeat with the shrimp until opaque and pink.

3. Build the Garlic Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add more butter and the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan and lemon juice until the sauce becomes glossy and thick.

4. Toss and Emulsify

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss vigorously, adding splashes of reserved pasta water to create a silky, emulsified coating. Fold in the lemon zest and chopped parsley.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the seafood! Salmon continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat. Aim for a medium-well interior for the juiciest results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a favorite because it masters the balance of textures. You get the crunch of the seared salmon, the snap of the shrimp, and the softness of the pasta. Furthermore, it is a one-pan sauce wonder, meaning cleanup is minimal despite the sophisticated results. It is a high-protein, high-flavor meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Serving Suggestions

To complete this gourmet seafood dinner, serve alongside a crisp arugula salad and crusty garlic bread. For wine pairings, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the buttery seafood and lemon notes beautifully.