Canned Salmon Pasta Recipe

I always crave the effortless balance of tangy lemon, robust garlic, and rich salmon mingled with perfectly al dente pasta. This twist on canned salmon pasta recipes intrigues me with its vibrant flavors and simplicity. Every bite feels like an unexpected journey through fresh ingredients and satisfying comfort that brightens any busy day.

I’ve always been a fan of recipes that use everyday ingredients and this canned salmon pasta is one of them. I discovered this dish when I was looking for a quick salmon lunch recipe and it’s been a favorite ever since.

I love how easy it is to get ready in just 20 minutes. I just toss in 8 oz of dried pasta and a can of salmon (liquid included) with olive oil, garlic, and fresh lemon juice.

The red pepper flakes give it a slight kick that makes it exciting without being overwhelming. I also add salt, pepper and if Im feeling extra, a bit of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

It’s one of those ideal can salmon recipes that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a delicious meal. Its simplicity really makes it perfect for those busy days when time isn’t on your side.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe mainly because it comes together super fast and doesnt require a lot of fancy ingredients. I mean, I can grab a can of salmon, a lemon, and a few other things that I usually have in my kitchen already, so it’s perfect for those nights when Im too busy to cook something complicated.

Another thing i really love is the way the flavors mix together. The garlic and lemon juice give the dish a nice zing while the red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Even though the ingredients list is short, the taste is surprisingly rich and satisfying.

I also appreciate that it feels kind of healthy even though its super simple. Salmon is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so i feel like im doing something good for myself even when im just throwing everything in a pan.

Lastly, i like that its a recipe thats easy to tweak. If i want to add another herb or spice, its simple to experiment, which makes cooking feel more fun and less stressful.

Ingredients

• Pasta: Offers carbohydrates for energy and a nice filling base for your meal
• Salmon: Rich in protein and omega 3, helps keep your heart healthy and strengthens muscles
• Olive oil: A healthy fat that smooths flavors and adds a rich taste
• Garlic: Provides a strong flavour with health benefits and a natural, zesty kick
• Lemon Juice: Brings a sour pop up flavour that balances out the other tastes
• Parsley: Adds a fresh spirit along with vitamins making the dish look and taste great

Ingredient Quantities

• 8 oz dried pasta (spaghetti or linguine works well)
• 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, with its liquid
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make this

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

3. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) to the heated oil and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it gets fragrant but not browned.

4. Open the can of salmon and use a fork to break up the chunks into smaller pieces while keeping the liquid.

5. Pour the can with its liquid into the pan and stir it together with the garlic.

6. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Let the salmon mixture simmer gently for about 3 minutes to combine the flavors.

8. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the salmon sauce, tossing everything together well so the pasta is evenly coated.

9. If you’re using parsley, stir in the chopped fresh parsley last minute.

10. Serve hot and enjoy your fuss-free, tasty salmon pasta!

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot for boiling the pasta
2. Colander for draining the pasta
3. Large pan for making the salmon sauce
4. Can opener for the salmon can
5. Fork for breaking up the salmon chunks
6. Knife and cutting board for mincing garlic (if needed)
7. Measuring spoons to spoon out olive oil and red pepper flakes
8. Citrus juicer or your hands for squeezing the lemon juice
9. Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the sauce

FAQ

Canned Salmon Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have canned salmon, try using canned tuna or even sardines. They add a different twist but work just as fine.
• If olive oil is out of stock, you can use butter or even avocado oil. Both offer a nice flavor with a slight difference in taste.
• Not a fan of fresh lemon juice? Bottled lemon juice is a good alternative though it might lack a bit of that zesty freshness.
• If you dont have red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used to add the same kind of heat.

Pro Tips

1. Try not to overcook the garlic; keep it on a gentle heat so it gets all fragrant without burning and tasting bitter.
2. When you add the canned salmon, stir it in without draining the liquid so you get all the extra flavor from the can, and if it seems a bit runny, just let it simmer a little longer.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice near the end of cooking – doing it too soon can make the sauce taste a bit bitter.
4. If you like a little extra kick, consider adding a bit more red pepper flakes or even a couple of capers for that tangy burst of flavor.