Fresh Oregon Salmon and Spinach Pasta in Creamy Garlic Sauce

—

## **Step-by-Step Instructions**

### **1. Cook the Pasta**
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

### **2. Prepare the Salmon**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about **3-4 minutes per side**, until golden and flaky. Remove from the pan and set aside.

### **3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce**
1. In the same pan, melt the **butter** over medium heat.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the **heavy cream** and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the **Parmesan cheese**, letting it melt into the sauce.
5. Add the **spinach**, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spinach is wilted.

### **4. Assemble the Dish**
1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
2. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the pasta.
3. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

—

## **Serving Suggestions**
🍷 Pair this dish with a crisp **Chardonnay** or **Sauvignon Blanc** for a perfect balance of flavors.
🥗 Serve with a fresh **arugula or Caesar salad** to complement the richness of the pasta.
🍞 Enjoy with a side of **garlic bread** for an extra indulgent meal.

—

## **Tips for the Best Salmon Pasta**
✅ **Use Fresh Wild-Caught Salmon** – Oregon salmon has a rich, buttery texture that works beautifully in creamy sauces.
✅ **Don’t Overcook the Salmon** – Keep it tender and flaky by cooking it just until done.
✅ **Adjust the Sauce Consistency** – If it’s too thick, add pasta water; if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
✅ **Customize It!** – Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

—

## **Final Thoughts**
This **Fresh Oregon Salmon and Spinach Pasta in Creamy Garlic Sauce** is the ultimate comfort food that’s also packed with nutrients. With its silky sauce, delicate flakes of salmon, and fresh spinach, it’s a meal that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Oregon’s finest flavors in your own kitchen! 🍽️🐟💛