Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce

This Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender seafood, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic cream sauce. Served with perfectly cooked penne pasta, this dish is both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 8 oz salmon, cut into chunks
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the seafood: Add the salmon chunks and shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the seafood is fully cooked and the salmon is flaky, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the sauce.
7. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add more veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
• Cheese variation: Use Asiago, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream and dairy-free cheese if desired.
• Herb Enhancement: Add fresh basil, oregano, or parsley to enhance the herb flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
   Yes, feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni, spaghetti, or fettuccine.
2. Can I use frozen seafood?
   Yes, frozen shrimp and salmon can be used. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   You can substitute with half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.
4. Can I add other seafood?
   Yes, scallops, mussels, or crab meat can be added for more variety.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the seafood and sauce ahead of time and combine everything just before serving.
6. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
   Keep an eye on the shrimp and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
7. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
   Yes, if using pre-cooked shrimp, just add them at the end to warm through.
8. Can I add more cream for a richer sauce?
   Yes, feel free to add more cream to make the sauce even richer and creamier.
9. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
   Yes, fresh spinach works perfectly and wilts quickly when added to the skillet.
10. What should I serve this with?
    Serve with a light side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Salmon & Shrimp Penne in Garlic Spinach Sauce is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the combination of seafood, spinach, and creamy sauce for a delicious meal!

Print