Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo with a Twist Recipe

When it comes to pasta, there’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy Alfredo sauce, right? But what if you could take it up a notch with the perfect combination of tender salmon and succulent shrimp? This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo with a Twist is all that and more—a rich, flavorful dish that will have your taste buds singing with joy. The twist comes with a hint of smoky flavor from the salmon, a touch of garlic and lemon, and a creamy sauce that perfectly coats each bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special date night, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo with a Twist

• Savory & Flavorful: The combination of shrimp and salmon adds a delightful depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Creamy & Rich: The sauce is indulgently creamy with just the right balance of garlic and Parmesan—perfect for mixing into pasta.
• Easy to Make: It’s a quick recipe that doesn’t require complicated steps. You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a more extravagant meal for guests, this dish works for both casual and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets – Boneless and skinless, for that rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and Alfredo sauce.
• 1/2 pound shrimp – Peeled and deveined, adding a sweet and tender bite to the creamy dish.
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta – Classic and perfect for this creamy Alfredo, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the salmon and shrimp to perfection.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that aromatic and savory base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For that luxuriously creamy texture in the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup whole milk – Adds a slightly lighter texture without losing the creaminess.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For the rich, cheesy flavor that ties everything together.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds a little zing and brightness to cut through the richness of the cream.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – The twist! It adds a smoky depth to the dish and pairs perfectly with the salmon.
• Salt & pepper – For seasoning, adjust to taste.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For garnish and a fresh burst of color.

(Note: You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you prefer your pasta on the spicy side!)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

2. Sear the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice golden crust. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, flake the salmon into large chunks.

3. Sear the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the salmon.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, and cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if needed.

5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Gently fold in the flaked salmon and seared shrimp, making sure to distribute the seafood evenly throughout the pasta.

6. Serve & Garnish
Serve the creamy seafood Alfredo immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of the salmon and shrimp mixed with the creamy Alfredo sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 680
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 155mg
Sodium: 880mg
Total Carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 34g
Vitamin A: 20%
Vitamin C: 8%
Calcium: 25%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo with a Twist

• Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the Alfredo.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try pairing this pasta with roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy and delicious side.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of this dish perfectly.

Additional Tips

• Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it a kick of heat.
• Substitute Pasta: Feel free to swap the fettuccine for linguine, penne, or any other pasta you prefer.
• Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh shrimp and salmon make a big difference in flavor, but frozen options work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.
• Make it Lighter: To lighten up the dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of fish?
A1: Yes! If you prefer another type of fish, like trout or cod, it will work perfectly in this dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for thinner fillets.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce can thicken as it cools. However, you can cook the seafood and pasta ahead of time and just combine them with the sauce when ready to serve.

Q3: Can I substitute the pasta for something gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.

Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
A5: While the seafood may lose some of its texture when frozen, you can freeze the Alfredo sauce with the pasta. Just thaw and reheat on the stove, adding fresh seafood when ready to serve.

Q6: How do I make this dish spicier?
A6: You can add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Q7: Can I use other seafood besides salmon and shrimp?
A7: Yes! Feel free to add scallops, crab, or even lobster. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the different seafood.

Q8: What can I serve with this dish?
A8: This dish pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a full meal.

Q9: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A9: Yes! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and swap the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Q10: How can I make the sauce richer?
A10: You can add extra butter or a splash of cream cheese for an even richer, creamier sauce.

Conclusion

This Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo with a Twist is the ultimate indulgent dish—creamy, smoky, and bursting with flavor. The seafood elevates the classic Alfredo sauce, making it a truly special meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a little extra luxury, this dish will leave you craving more. Enjoy every bite!

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