Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta (Air Fryer Recipe)

 Introduction:

Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta combines flaky, air-fried salmon with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Cooking the salmon in the air fryer gives it a crisp edge while keeping it tender and moist inside. This dish feels indulgent, but it comes together in around 30 minutes, making it a great option for weeknights or a cozy dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

 Ingredients:

For the Salmon (Air Fryer):

2 salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, ~150g each)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika (optional)

Juice of ½ lemon

For the Pasta:

200g (7 oz) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work great)

Salt (for pasta water)

For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

¼ tsp black pepper

1 tsp lemon zest (optional for brightness)

2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)

 Instructions:

 Prep and Air Fry the Salmon (10 minutes)

Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 minutes.

Pat salmon fillets dry. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice.

Place in the air fryer basket (skin-side down if skin-on).

Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Check for doneness: the salmon should flake easily with a fork.

Remove and let rest for a couple of minutes, then flake into chunks.

 Cook the Pasta (Simultaneously – 10 minutes)

Bring salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes).

Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.

 Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce (5–7 minutes)

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir for 2–3 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using).

Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

 Combine & Serve (2–3 minutes)

Gently fold in the flaked salmon.

Toss lightly to combine.

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

 Serving Suggestions:

Serve with garlic bread or a light green salad.

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish.

 Tips:

Don’t overcook the salmon—air fryers can be powerful!

Add spinach or peas to the sauce for extra color and nutrients.

For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.