I have to share one of my favorite meals, the Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also brings a lovely balance of healthy ingredients. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and satisfying. The combination of the spicy blackened salmon with creamy Alfredo sauce and tender broccoli was a hit.
Why I Love Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
There is something special about this dish. The blackened salmon gives a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and a pop of color, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. It’s a meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients for Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
To whip up this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Blackened Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Broccoli Alfredo:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
1: Prepare the Blackened Salmon
Start by mixing the spices in a small bowl. This blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper creates a flavorful crust on the salmon.
Coat the salmon fillets generously with the spice mixture. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until the fish is cooked through and has a nice blackened crust.
2: Cook the Broccoli and Pasta
While the salmon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions.
In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will cook the broccoli perfectly without losing its vibrant color. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet used for the salmon, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked fettuccine and broccoli in the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Place the blackened salmon on top of the pasta and broccoli.
This dish is best served immediately while everything is warm and fresh. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress anyone at your dinner table.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon will give the best flavor. Look for bright color and a fresh smell.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid dryness.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper in the spice mix.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce.
Serving
This Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the flavors beautifully.
If you want to add a bit of zest, a squeeze of lemon over the salmon just before serving can brighten up the dish.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might want to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to bring it back to life.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition.
The Alfredo sauce, while creamy and rich, can be made lighter if you prefer. Overall, this dish provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables.
Variations of Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
There are many ways to customize this dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Use Different Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne or spaghetti.
- Try Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of salmon, chicken or shrimp can also work well with this recipe.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo has become a staple in my home. The flavors are bold, and it’s a complete meal in one. I love that I can whip it up on a weeknight or serve it for special occasions. My family always enjoys it, and I feel good about serving them a healthy dish.
Cooking can be a wonderful way to bring people together. This Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is a perfect example of that.