Thyme-Infused Salmon Pasta Delight

Name: Thyme-Infused Salmon Pasta Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g fettuccine; Salt for pasta water; 2 salmon fillets (about 200g each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish; Extra Parmesan cheese, grated

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love this Thyme-Infused Salmon Pasta Delight! It’s a beautiful harmony of flavors that truly excites the palate. The fresh thyme adds a unique earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the salmon, while the creamy sauce brings everything together in a rich, indulgent way. Whenever I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of warm family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. It’s a favorite that impresses guests and satisfies cravings for comfort food. Plus, it's simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for special occasions.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:55:19.341Z

When I first created this dish, I wanted something that could bring both comfort and elegance to the table. After several trials, I discovered that fresh thyme, with its lively aroma, perfectly complements the natural flavors of salmon. This combination not only elevates the pasta but also makes a great statement about using fresh ingredients. A quick sauté ensures the veggies retain their vibrant color and crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.

One memorable evening, I served this to my friends, and the joyful expressions on their faces made it all worthwhile. They couldn’t believe how easily I had combined rich flavors without overwhelming the palate. My secret? Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the dish! It’s a simple trick that makes a significant difference.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh thyme lends a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish
Creamy, comforting sauce perfectly balances the rich salmon
Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Role of Fresh Thyme

Fresh thyme is not just an aromatic herb; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of this dish. When you chop fresh thyme, the oils release a sweet, earthy aroma that beautifully complements the richness of the salmon. It's also worth noting that cooking thyme can intensify its flavor, so adding it at different stages—like during the sauce preparation—helps to layer the taste throughout the dish.

If fresh thyme isn't available, you can substitute it with dried thyme. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, since fresh thyme adds a vibrancy that dried can't match, if you do opt for dried, consider adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking fettuccine to the perfect al dente texture is key to achieving a satisfying bite that holds onto the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Be sure to follow the package instructions closely, and start checking for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time. The pasta should be tender yet still firm to the bite, often indicated by a slight white dot in the center when you cut it.

Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining it. This starchy water acts as a wonderful thickening agent for your creamy sauce, allowing it to adhere better to the pasta. If the final dish seems too thick after mixing everything together, add a splash of this reserved pasta water to achieve the ideal consistency.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g fettuccine
Salt for pasta water

For the Salmon and Sauce

2 salmon fillets (about 200g each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

To Serve

Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Extra Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Cook skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and onion and sauté until translucent. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Add thyme and squeeze of lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything

Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Flake in the salmon gently, mixing carefully.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh thyme and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or peas while making the sauce. This will not only enhance the dish’s color but also increase its nutritional value!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this dish further, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. A fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta and salmon beautifully. Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well and enhances the dish's flavor profile.

For an impressive presentation, you can plate the pasta in a nest and place the salmon fillet on top. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and extra thyme sprigs adds a touch of elegance that will impress your guests during any special occasion.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the sauce a day ahead, which not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen overnight. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, reheat it gently on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to get the desired consistency.

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools, so adding a bit of reserved pasta water while reheating can restore its original creamy texture. For best results, consume leftover pasta within 1-2 days to enjoy peak flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking for lighter options.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the salmon.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.