Introduction
Seafood lovers, rejoice! This Creamy Shrimp and Salmon Alfredo combines two beloved treasures of the ocean — shrimp and salmon — in a velvety Alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for those special occasions when you want to impress your family or guests with a rich, restaurant-quality meal at home. While Alfredo is often associated with comfort food, the addition of fresh seafood elevates it into something extraordinary. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner looking to venture into seafood dishes, this recipe will guide you through each step to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
The luscious cream sauce, infused with the flavors of garlic and Parmesan, coats the tender pieces of salmon and juicy shrimp, while fettuccine pasta brings it all together into a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? This indulgent meal can be made in just over 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend celebrations.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step preparation of this Creamy Shrimp and Salmon Alfredo masterpiece!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the Creamy Shrimp and Salmon Alfredo:
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 200g salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined (you can use medium or large shrimp, whichever you prefer)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for that wonderful, aromatic flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that creamy Alfredo sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is ideal for the best flavor)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (to enhance the depth of the sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season as needed to balance the flavors)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and a pop of color)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions. You’ll want the pasta to be al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten into. This texture pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside. You can toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon and Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. The combination of both gives the dish a rich flavor and prevents the butter from burning too quickly. Once the butter has melted, add the bite-sized pieces of salmon to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning to sear all sides until the salmon is golden and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can dry out. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Again, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside with the salmon.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t wash it out, as those browned bits on the bottom will add flavor to the sauce), lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. The garlic provides the perfect aromatic base for the sauce. Next, pour in the chicken broth, which helps deglaze the pan, loosening any flavorful bits left behind by the seafood. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Now, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid any scorching.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Once the sauce has thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring continuously until it is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. The cheese adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Now, gently return the cooked salmon and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Be gentle with the salmon to avoid breaking it up too much. Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce and the seafood is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Serve
Your Creamy Shrimp and Salmon Alfredo is ready to serve! Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can sprinkle a bit more Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, seafood-infused bite.
Cooking Notes
- Salmon Choice: Fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal for this dish, but farmed salmon works well too. Be sure to remove any skin before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Pasta: Fettuccine is the traditional choice for Alfredo, but feel free to substitute with other types of pasta like linguine or even spaghetti.
- Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or extra chicken broth to thin it out slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a Caesar salad or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate. For beverages, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy seafood flavors, or you can opt for sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a non-alcoholic option.
Tips
- To save time, you can prepare the shrimp and salmon while the pasta is cooking.
- Don’t overcook the seafood — both the salmon and shrimp are best when they retain a little moisture and tenderness.
- Fresh Parmesan makes a world of difference compared to pre-grated. Invest in a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself for superior flavor.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 1050mg
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp and Salmon Alfredo is the perfect blend of indulgent comfort food and elegant seafood cuisine. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply because you crave something rich and flavorful, this dish is sure to impress. The Alfredo sauce, combined with tender shrimp and succulent salmon, makes for a mouthwatering meal that your family and friends will rave about.
FAQ
Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! You can substitute the salmon or shrimp with other seafood like scallops, crab, or even lobster for an extra luxurious twist.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can use half-and-half or whole milk with a little flour to help thicken the sauce. However, keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich as with heavy cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!