Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta: A Cozy Family Favorite
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about gathering around the dinner table, the soft glow of candlelight illuminating smiling faces, and the tantalizing aroma of a delicious, homemade meal wafting through the air. One dish that always brings joy and comfort to our family is Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta. This easy recipe combines creamy feta, tender salmon, and perfectly cooked pasta—a combination that not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul. As the warm, garlicky flavors mingle with the salmon, you’ll find that every bite is a little celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When life feels a bit hectic, or when you’re simply in the mood for something comforting, this Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta is there to save the day. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore it:
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy feta complements the succulent salmon, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
- Quick Dinner Idea: In under 30 minutes, this meal goes from your kitchen to the table, faster than takeout!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and they’ll be asking for seconds when they taste this delightful combination.
- Versatile: You can swap in your favorite vegetables or different proteins, making it a go-to for any pantry.
- Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and beneficial nutrients from the garlic, it’s a dish you can feel good about.
Ingredients
- Feta Cheese: Creamy and rich, adds a tangy depth.
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh, flaky, and a great source of protein.
- Pasta (your choice): I prefer penne for its shape that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh and fragrant, it forms the base of the sauce.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and slightly acidic, they add a pop of flavor and color.
- Olive Oil: For drizzling—adds healthy fats and flavor.
- Spinach (optional): A great way to sneak in some greens.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhanced taste.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream instead of feta, or try chicken in place of salmon for a different flavor profile.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ready faster than takeout, this meal is your ticket to a lovely dinner without all the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your feta is perfectly baked.
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Prepare Your Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water—you’ll need it later!
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Assemble the Ingredients: In a baking dish, add the feta cheese in the center. Surround it with cherry tomatoes, salmon fillets on top, and toss in freshly minced garlic.
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Season and Drizzle: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper over everything. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
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Bake It All Together: Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through, and the feta is melting beautifully.
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Combine with Pasta: Once out of the oven, flake the salmon with a fork. Toss it all together with the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water bit by bit until you achieve a creamy consistency.
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Garnish and Serve: Toss in fresh spinach after mixing for an extra touch of color. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point, so get ready for some happy faces at the dinner table!
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a boost of veggies.
- Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavors even further.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for those who like a little heat!
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta is delicious on its own, but complement it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. Serve it with a refreshing glass of white wine, or if you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling lemon-lime soda would be delightful. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive family gathering, this dish shines in any setting!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), let the pasta cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave or warm it on the stove—you might want to add a bit more feta for creaminess!
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- For perfectly cooked salmon, take it out just when the center is still a little pink; it will continue to cook as it rests.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven for flavors to meld beautifully.
- Always taste before adding salt; feta can already be salty, so adjust according to your personal preference.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for the best results.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative would work well, but remember that flavors will vary.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: A fresh salad or some roasted vegetables make excellent sides to complement this dish.
Conclusion
As you gather your loved ones around the table, serving this Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta will create not just a meal, but a cherished memory. The creamy, garlicky goodness wrapped around tender salmon and pasta is more than just food; it’s love served warm. I encourage you to try this dish, share it with friends, and make it a part of your family traditions. Here’s to cozy evenings, happy gatherings, and incredible meals—all starting with the simple joy of cooking together. Enjoy!
Contents
Garlic Baked Feta Salmon Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (your choice, preferably penne) Cook according to package instructions
- 1 cup Feta Cheese Creamy and rich
- 2 fillets Salmon Fillets Fresh and flaky
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil For drizzling
- 2 cups Spinach Optional, for added greens
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice For brightness
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water.
- In a baking dish, add the feta cheese in the center. Surround it with cherry tomatoes, and place the salmon fillets on top. Toss in the minced garlic.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over everything. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Cooking
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the feta is melting.
- Flake the salmon and toss everything together with the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water until you get a creamy consistency.
- Add in fresh spinach and serve warm with herbs, if desired.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest