Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cajun Salmon Rigatoni, a creamy pasta dish that offers a perfect blend of spicy Cajun seasoning and tender, seared salmon. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. The rich sauce clings to the rigatoni, creating a comforting meal that your family and friends will rave about. With the balance of protein and healthy fats, this dish nourishes while satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound salmon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (10–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and one tablespoon of butter. Sear salmon seasoned with Cajun seasoning for about 4–5 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and simmer gently.
- Stir in parmesan and cream cheese until smooth. Add drained rigatoni and reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
- Gently fold in salmon and season with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Serve garnished with parsley and extra parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg