lemon dill salmon pasta on a plate with text overlay

When you need a quick yet elegant meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors, this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is the perfect solution. Combining tender salmon, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill in a creamy sauce, this dish is restaurant-quality but easy enough for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe delivers a satisfying, gourmet experience in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta

First and foremost, this dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, while the bright lemon and fresh dill cut through the richness for a well-rounded flavor. Additionally, salmon adds a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this meal as nutritious as it is delicious.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use fresh or frozen salmon, adjust the creaminess to your liking, or even swap the pasta for zucchini noodles if you prefer a low-carb option. The best part? It comes together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Save

Ingredients for the Best Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta

To make this Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work best)
• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless and cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

2. Sear the Salmon

Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until golden but still slightly pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Creamy Lemon Dill Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Then, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Combine Pasta and Salmon

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Gently fold in the salmon chunks, being careful not to break them apart too much. For extra richness, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon zest for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot, pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Save

Tips for the Best Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta

• Use Fresh Dill for Best Flavor: Dried dill can be substituted (use 1 tsp), but fresh dill provides a brighter taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: It will continue cooking slightly when added back to the sauce, so aim for medium doneness when searing.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, replace half the cream with milk or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Make It Ahead: While best served fresh, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth.

Conclusion

This Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, infused with zesty lemon and fragrant dill, complements the tender salmon beautifully, while the al dente pasta ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, with minimal cleanup and flexible ingredients, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy gourmet flavors at home.

Print