Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo: A Creamy Seafood Pasta
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this decadent Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo. With its velvety Alfredo sauce, tender seafood, and al dente pasta, this dish is a true culinary masterpiece. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, it's sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound dried pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the seafood: Season the salmon and shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the seafood: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add salmon and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Create the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat. Stir in cooked salmon and shrimp.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Elevated Flavor:
- Enhance the creaminess: For a richer texture, use whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the sauce for extra indulgence.
- Add complexity: A splash of white wine to the Alfredo sauce can elevate the flavors and create a more complex taste profile.
- Infuse with garlic: For a stronger garlic flavor, sauté the garlic in the butter for a longer period before adding the cream.
- Balance the flavors: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish and balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Texture and color: Add a handful of fresh spinach or chopped broccoli florets to the pasta for a boost of nutrients and color.
- Spice it up: For those who prefer a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the finished dish.
- Perfect the pasta: To prevent the pasta from becoming gummy, be sure to cook it al dente and rinse it with cold water before adding it to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side salad: A light and refreshing side salad, such as a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, complements the rich flavors of this dish.
- Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious Alfredo sauce.
- Wine pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with the seafood flavors in this dish.
With its simple yet elegant presentation and unforgettable taste, Salmon and Shrimp Alfredo is a dish that will leave your guests craving for more. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece and let the flavors transport you to a world of pure indulgence.
Comments
Post a Comment