Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon

Name: Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 4 salmon fillets; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

I love whipping up Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon on busy weeknights when I need a quick meal that feels gourmet. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic create a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with tender salmon and perfectly cooked linguine. This dish has quickly become a favorite in my household for its simplicity and elegance. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still want something delicious and satisfying.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-19T17:39:18.808Z

When I first made Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could shine so brightly together. The combination of fresh lemon juice and garlic creates a sauce that is both bright and savory, while the salmon adds a delightful richness. I recommend using good quality olive oil for the best flavor; it elevates the dish immensely. Pairing the linguine al dente with the salmon creates a texture contrast that I adore.

After several tries, I've learned that finishing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely color and freshness that ties everything together. A quick toss in the skillet is all you need to infuse the flavors just before serving. This has become a beloved recipe that I revisit time and again, both for its ease and the compliments it garners from friends and family.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken the palate
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Rich salmon elevates the dish into a satisfying meal

Mastering Linguine Cooking

Cooking the linguine to al dente is essential for this dish, as it maintains a firm texture that can beautifully hold the sauce. You’ll want to keep an eye on the pasta starting a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. Taste testing a strand will give you a perfect indication; it should chew with a slight firmness but not be overly raw. Also, don’t forget to generously salt your boiling water—this is the best chance to flavor the pasta from the inside out.

After draining the linguine, save that 1/2 cup of pasta water. It's liquid gold! This starchy water can help create a silky sauce, allowing the linguine to cling to the other ingredients better. If you’ve never saved pasta water before, I recommend you give it a try in this recipe; the results are worth it!

Cooking the Salmon Just Right

When cooking the salmon, ensure that your skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the fillets. This helps achieve that golden, slightly crispy exterior while locking in moisture. If your salmon sticks to the pan, give it a little more time—it's not ready to flip if it's still clinging. A non-stick skillet works wonders here, but if you use stainless steel, just be patient until it naturally releases with a little tug.

Both cooking time and thickness of the fillets will affect how long you need to cook them. Generally, you should aim for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and loses its translucent look. If you prefer a more well-done texture, consider reducing heat to medium-low once you flip them over to avoid drying them out.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

If you're looking to amp up the flavor profile, experimenting with fresh herbs like dill or basil can add an exciting twist to your Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon. These herbs complement the freshness of lemon beautifully and can be tossed in right before serving. For a kick, consider adding a few capers to the sauce for a briny contrast that marries well with the salmon’s richness.

In terms of dietary swaps, you might use whole grain or gluten-free linguine if you need healthier options without sacrificing texture. Additionally, if you don’t have salmon on hand, you can substitute it with shrimp or grilled chicken. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly—shrimp typically cooks quicker, in about 2-3 minutes per side.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

For the Linguine

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

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

These ingredients will come together to create a flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy cooking process:

Cook the Linguine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Salmon

While the linguine cooks, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the salmon in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the salmon, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the cooked linguine, lemon juice, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Gently toss the salmon with the linguine mixture. Finish by sprinkling with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Linguine with Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider topping the dish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds. They complement the flavors beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lemony sauce can absorb into the pasta and salmon, so it's best to toss before serving again. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water; this helps bring moisture back to the dish without making it dry or rubbery.

Freezing this dish is less ideal due to the salmon's texture and the fact that pasta doesn’t always hold up well once thawed. If you must freeze it, remove the salmon beforehand and freeze the linguine and sauce separately. Thawed pasta can be used in other quick dishes, while fresh salmon can be grilled or baked later to serve on the side.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served immediately to enjoy its vibrant flavors and textures. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich salmon and bright lemon flavors. You might also consider crusty bread for dipping in leftover sauce; it’s too good to waste!

For a more substantial meal, serve the linguine alongside seasonal roasted vegetables or sautéed greens. They not only add nutrition and color but also enhance the overall dining experience. If you’re hosting, consider making a double batch of the linguine without the salmon, which can be tossed with the cooked fish individually at the time of serving for an elegant presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for linguine?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free, but ensure any added ingredients like sauces or toppings are also dairy-free.

→ Can I add vegetables to the linguine?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes would be great additions.