Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta

Ingredients

• Salmon
• Cajun seasoning
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Olive oil
• Pasta
• Pasta water
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato paste
• Heavy cream
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
4. In a bowl, season the salmon with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper and olive oil.
5. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Sear the salmon for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through.
8. Transfer to a plate.
9. Reduce the heat to medium.
10. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
11. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
12. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to deepen its flavor.
13. Pour in the heavy cream.
14. Season with additional Cajun seasoning to taste, then stir in the lemon juice.
15. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
16. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
17. Add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water.
18. Toss until the sauce becomes smooth, silky, and coats every noodle.
19. Gently fold in the salmon, or spoon it over the pasta before serving.
20. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.