Go Back
Homemade Canned Salmon Pasta picture

Canned Salmon Pasta

This Canned Salmon Pasta is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful weeknight dinner that transforms pantry staples into a gourmet meal!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Healthy, Pasta, Quick
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing garlic and providing a rich base flavor.
  • 2 large cloves garlic minced
  • 1 5 ounce can salmon Pink or sockeye, boneless/skinless
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 lemon zest of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 4 ounces uncooked pasta Spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Boil the Pasta - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the uncooked pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Garlic - While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  • Step 3: Add the Salmon - Once the garlic is ready, add the canned salmon (drained) to the skillet. Gently break it apart with a spatula, mixing it with the garlic and allowing it to warm through for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Step 4: Combine with Pasta - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the salmon mixture. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a sauce that clings to the pasta.
  • Step 5: Season and Garnish - Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld for an additional minute or two.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Zester or Grater

Notes

  • Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
  • Be cautious with salt, as canned salmon can be salty.
  • Don’t burn the garlic; sauté until just fragrant.
  • Fresh parsley enhances the dish's flavor.