Smoky Paprika Salmon Pasta Bowl

Name: Smoky Paprika Salmon Pasta Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; 2 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 200ml heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Fast Meal Recipes

I absolutely love how this Smoky Paprika Salmon Pasta Bowl combines rich flavors with a quick cooking time. The smoky paprika adds a depth that elevates the creamy sauce, while the tender salmon brings a delightful texture. It’s become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet impressive. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients without sacrificing taste. You’ll find this dish is a crowd-pleaser, and the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:58:27.809Z

When I first tried to recreate this dish, I was reminded of my travels, where smoky spices often took center stage in meals. I made sure to use high-quality paprika, as it truly makes a difference in flavor. My technique of smoking the salmon briefly in the pan elevates its natural richness and pairs perfectly with the pasta. A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens up the whole dish!

This pasta not only tastes fantastic, but it’s also a nutritious option. I often swap out regular pasta for whole grain or chickpea pasta, which adds fiber and protein. If you’re in a hurry, I’ve found pre-cooked salmon works well, too. Just be sure to add the smoked paprika to enhance the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, smoky flavor that transports you to culinary delights
Creamy sauce that brings everything together beautifully
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

To achieve that ideal al dente texture, ensure your pasta is cooked in a large pot of well-salted boiling water. The general rule of thumb is to follow the package instructions, but keep an eye on it a minute or two before the time is up. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite yet fully cooked. When draining, make sure not to rinse the pasta, as this can wash away the starchy coating that helps the sauce adhere well.

If you're using a smaller pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli, it will hold onto the creamy sauce better, enhancing each bite. Consider saving a ladle of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can help adjust and enrich the sauce later if it becomes too thick.

Mastering Salmon Cooking

When cooking the salmon, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the fillets. This helps develop a nice crust while keeping the inside tender and flaky. I recommend a medium-high heat setting, which takes about 2-3 minutes for the first side to turn golden brown. After flipping, the skin should easily release from the pan if cooked properly. If it sticks, let it cook a bit longer before trying to turn it.

For a different flavor profile, consider substituting the salmon with a firm white fish like cod or haddock. You can season them similarly with smoked paprika and lemon; however, the cooking time may differ slightly due to the fish's thickness.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Smoky Paprika Salmon Pasta Bowl, consider adding seasonal vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce, which not only enhances the nutritional value but also improves the overall presentation. Sauté these vegetables after your garlic is fragrant and before adding the cream; they will cook quickly and add vibrant colors.

For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Simply whisk it in after removing the skillet from the heat to avoid curdling. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bowl

300g pasta of your choice
2 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
200ml heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and flake into large pieces.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, then add the flaked salmon and pasta, tossing to combine.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta bowl warm, garnished with fresh parsley and additional smoked paprika if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to help rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta chewy and dry.

You can also prepare the salmon ahead. Cook the fillets, flake them, and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply warm them up gently with the pasta and sauce to prevent dryness.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredients—just ensure to use a large enough skillet to accommodate the increased volume of salmon and sauce. Additionally, you may need to cook the pasta in batches to prevent sticking together during boiling.

To make it a buffet-style meal, set up a pasta bar where guests can top their servings with fresh ingredients, like lemon zest, chili flakes, or extra smoked paprika, allowing for personalization while maintaining the core flavors of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with trout or tilapia if you prefer.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream for a lighter version.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and salmon ahead. Just combine and heat before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.