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#### **2. Cook the Salmon:**
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the pan is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden and easily flakes apart with a fork. Remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside to rest.
Once the salmon is cool enough to handle, break it into large chunks or flake it with a fork. Set the salmon aside to be added back to the pasta later.
#### **3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:**
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce for about 2 minutes.
#### **4. Combine the Pasta and Salmon:**
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic sauce, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly. Add the flaked salmon, then gently fold it into the pasta and sauce, being careful not to break up the salmon too much.
If needed, add a bit more pasta water to ensure the sauce coats the pasta beautifully. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness and a touch of freshness.
#### **5. Serve:**
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a few extra shavings of Parmesan. Add lemon wedges on the side for those who want a little extra citrus kick.
### **Tips for Perfecting Your Fresh Oregon Salmon and Spinach Pasta:**
– **Use fresh pasta:** If you have access to fresh pasta, it can take this dish to the next level with its delicate texture and rich flavor. Fresh pasta will cook faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
– **Don’t overcook the salmon:** For the best texture, cook the salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking will make the fish dry and tough.
– **Customize the sauce:** While this creamy garlic sauce is a crowd-pleaser, you can make it your own by adding herbs like thyme or oregano or even a touch of Dijon mustard for extra depth.
– **Add extra veggies:** If you love greens, feel free to add additional vegetables like asparagus, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
### **Why You’ll Love This Dish:**
This Fresh Oregon Salmon and Spinach Pasta in Creamy Garlic Sauce is the ultimate combination of light and creamy, fresh and rich. The salmon adds a deep, savory flavor, while the spinach brings a healthy dose of greens, and the creamy garlic sauce ties it all together beautifully. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a dinner party, it’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! In just under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish right at home, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
So, grab some fresh Oregon salmon, spinach, and pasta, and treat yourself to a delicious, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. Bon appétit!
