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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the salmon and tomatoes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
