Italian Salmon Penne

Name: Italian Salmon Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 2 salmon fillets, skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Highlighted under: Instant Pot Recipes

I love making Italian Salmon Penne when I want a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. The combination of tender penne pasta with succulent salmon creates a delightful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. I especially enjoy the tangy lemon sauce that brightens each bite, making this dish stand out on our dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a gathering with friends, this recipe always receives rave reviews. Plus, it's easy to whip up in just about 30 minutes, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the company.

Created by

The Chefannaskitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:38:22.273Z

When I first attempted making Italian Salmon Penne, I was surprised at how simple yet impressive it turned out. The key is in the method of cooking the salmon; I pan-sear it to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky. The vibrant flavors of garlic and fresh spinach add layers of depth to the dish, making it a favorite for gatherings.

A little tip I learned along the way is to reserve some pasta water when draining the penne. Adding a splash of starchy water to the sauce helps it cling better to the pasta, ensuring each bite is flavorful. This technique transformed my pasta dishes from mediocre to incredible!

You'll Love This Recipe Because

Flavorful balance of rich salmon and zesty lemon
Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Versatile for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

The foundation of this dish lies in cooking the penne pasta perfectly. To achieve al dente pasta, follow the package instructions closely, typically boiling for about 10-12 minutes. Al dente means the pasta should be firm to the bite but cooked through, ensuring it holds up well in the sauce. Reserve that cup of pasta water; it's a crucial component for adjusting your sauce's consistency later on. That starchy water can transform an otherwise dry dish into a silky wonder.

Using a large pot for boiling helps prevent crowding, allowing the pasta to move freely in the water. Additionally, adding a generous amount of salt to the water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Remember, the water should taste like the sea. While the penne cooks, begin preparing the salmon and other ingredients to make the most of your time.

Secrets to Cooking Salmon

Cooking salmon can seem daunting, but with the right heat and timing, you can achieve perfectly flaky fish. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot by letting it preheat for a minute before adding the olive oil. You should see a shimmer on the oil when it’s hot enough. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, and watch for the flesh to change from translucent to opaque. That’s your indicator that it’s nearly done; you want to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

For an added flavor boost, consider marinating the salmon for 15-30 minutes before cooking with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. This not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the salmon moist. If you're looking for a simpler option, quick pan-searing as described works beautifully; it'll become a staple method for cooking fish in your kitchen.

Enhancing the Sauce

The lemon sauce brings this dish together and elevates the salmon’s rich flavor. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but be cautious; it can burn quickly, turning bitter. Then, when you add the spinach, cook just until it's wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients. If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water; it creates a creamy consistency that beautifully coats the penne and salmon.

You can experiment with the sauce by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or substituting herbs like dill or parsley for fresh brightness. If you prefer a creamier version, consider mixing in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche after adding the spinach. This provides richness, making each bite indulgently satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Italian Salmon Penne:

Main Ingredients

300g penne pasta
2 salmon fillets, skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Italian Salmon Penne:

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Salmon

Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the salmon and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and flake into large pieces.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add spinach, lemon juice, and zest, cooking until the spinach wilts. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked penne and flaked salmon to the skillet. Toss gently to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon as needed. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your homemade Italian Salmon Penne!

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can sprinkle some toasted pine nuts over the dish before serving. They add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the salmon.

Serving Suggestions

For a touch of elegance, serve the Italian Salmon Penne in shallow bowls, allowing guests to see the vibrant spinach and the flaky salmon on top of the pasta. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must, providing a salty finish that complements the acidity of the lemon. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, which mirrors the flavors in the pasta and refreshes the palate.

You might also consider offering crusty garlic bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. A light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, works well to balance the dish’s richness and citrus notes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Italian Salmon Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist, as it can dry out when reheated alone. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Freezing this dish is not recommended, as the quality of the salmon can degrade. However, you can prepare the penne and sauce in advance, then cook the salmon fresh when ready to serve. This not only saves time but also ensures the salmon remains perfectly tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What if I don’t like salmon?

You can substitute the salmon with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great substitute and adds more fiber to the dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.