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Citrus-Scented Pappardelle with Slow-Roasted Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Beverly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This delightful Citrus-Scented Pappardelle with Slow-Roasted Salmon is a vibrant and elegant dish combining tender, flaky salmon infused with lemon and thyme, juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, and wide ribbons of pappardelle pasta tossed in a refreshing orange zest and juice sauce. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and optional Parmesan, this recipe offers a fresh and flavorful meal ideal for a special dinner or weekend treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz pappardelle pasta
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 orange (zest and juice)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the salmon and tomatoes.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice to infuse a citrusy, herbaceous flavor.
  3. Add Tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the same baking tray to roast alongside the fish, which will concentrate their sweetness.
  4. Roast the Salmon and Tomatoes: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and tomatoes are tender and caramelized.
  5. Cook the Pappardelle: While the salmon is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions, generally 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of the pasta cooking water.
  6. Make the Citrus Sauce and Combine: In a large skillet, combine the reserved pasta water, orange juice, orange zest, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add the cooked pappardelle and toss gently to coat the pasta with the bright citrus sauce.
  7. Add Fresh Herbs and Season: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, tossing again to evenly distribute flavors throughout the pasta.
  8. Plate the Dish: Once the salmon is done roasting, place a fillet atop a bed of the citrus-scented pappardelle on each serving plate. Spoon some roasted cherry tomatoes over the top to add color, moisture, and flavor.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each plate. Serve immediately to enjoy the harmonious combination of citrus, herbs, and tender salmon.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best texture and flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps emulsify the sauce and keeps pasta moist.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
  • If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be substituted but use slightly less due to its stronger flavor.
  • For enhanced citrus aroma, consider adding a small amount of orange or lemon zest to the pasta water while cooking the pasta.
  • This recipe pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.