Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Posted on November 14, 2025

Enjoy restaurant-quality Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta at home. This recipe features succulent salmon, perfectly cooked rotini, and a rich tomato basil sauce that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total prep and cook time, you can whip up a delicious meal even on the busiest weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of fresh basil, rich cream, and savory salmon creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to special gatherings, this dish fits right in.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the salmon and plenty of herbs, this dish is not only tasty but also healthy.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the pasta and sauce make for a beautiful dish that’s sure to wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will make preparation easy and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot
Skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients quickly while developing rich flavors.
Colander: Ensures your pasta drains well without losing any delicious pieces.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helps achieve accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Enjoy restaurant-quality Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta at home. This recipe features salmon, rotini, and a rich tomato basil sauce!

For the Pasta

8 ounces rotini pasta

For the Salmon

1 pound salmon, (skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces, patted dry)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch red pepper flakes, (optional)

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese, (plus more for garnish)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh basil, (chopped)
Chopped parsley, (for garnish)
Salt, (to taste)

How to Make Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

In a mixing bowl, toss the salmon pieces with extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until well-coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Salmon

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned salmon pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add extra virgin olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine Cream and Cheese

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese along with kosher salt and black pepper until smooth.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Add the cooked rotini pasta back into the skillet along with sautéed salmon. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed before serving.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Serving Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors while adding visual appeal.

Add Fresh Herbs

Basil Leaves: Garnish each plate with extra fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor.
Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a vibrant touch and added freshness.

Pair with Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette as a perfect accompaniment to this pasta dish.

Include a Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and complements the creamy pasta well.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a colorful side that mirrors the pasta’s flavors.

Enhance with Cheese

Extra Parmesan: Provide grated parmesan at the table for those who want an extra cheesy experience.
Feta Crumbles: A sprinkle of feta can add a tangy twist that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dish.

How to Perfect Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Perfecting Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

Bold Seasoning: Use fresh herbs and spices generously to enhance flavors.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your rotini is cooked al dente for the best texture in every bite.
Use High-Quality Salmon: Fresh salmon enhances both taste and texture, making your pasta more enjoyable.
Balance Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream based on personal preference; less cream results in a lighter dish.
Garnish Creatively: Don’t shy away from garnishing with colorful herbs or additional cheese for visual appeal.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot right after preparation to maintain its creamy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Pairing sides with your Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for an elegant side.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta perfectly.
Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled with olive oil brings out its natural sweetness and adds texture.
Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf can provide a nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Cooked rice pilaf with herbs offers a simple yet flavorful base alongside your pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always check for al dente, where it’s firm yet tender.
Skipping the seasoning: Underseasoned dishes lack flavor. Make sure to use enough salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
Not patting the salmon dry: Moisture on the salmon can prevent proper searing. Always pat the pieces dry with a paper towel before cooking.
Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs; add fresh basil right at the end for maximum taste.
Using low-quality cream: The cream greatly influences the sauce’s richness. Opt for high-quality heavy cream for a luxurious texture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Portion it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta?

Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta is a delicious dish made with rotini pasta, salmon, and a creamy tomato basil sauce that’s full of flavor.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! You can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia for different flavors while maintaining similar cooking times.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes or switch out the pasta type to suit your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta is not only simple but also offers a wonderful blend of flavors that can impress anyone at your dinner table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s versatile and sure to become a staple!