Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo

Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo is a true delight that combines indulgence and nutritious ingredients. Imagine a creamy, velvety Alfredo sauce that wraps around perfectly cooked fettuccini and fresh broccoli, all while being accented by the satisfying crunch of blackened salmon. This dish is not only satisfying in terms of flavor, but it also offers a wonderful visual presentation. You can often whip this up for weeknight dinners or even impress guests with an elegant meal. It’s all about balance—between rich flavors and wholesome veggies, giving you a dish that feels both special and comforting. Plus, it comes together fairly quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy something amazing!

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So, grab your apron, and let’s make this delicious Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo together!

Why This Recipe Works

Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and bold flavors. The air-fried salmon offers a deliciously crispy exterior that perfectly complements the rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. By incorporating fresh broccoli and fettuccini pasta, this dish not only becomes a feast for the eyes but also provides a nutritious twist to a classic favorite. You’ll appreciate how the flaky salmon and tender vegetable enhance the overall experience, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo

This creamy delight combines the richness of traditional Alfredo with the excitement of blackened salmon. It’s a dish that satisfies pasta enthusiasts and seafood seekers alike. With its delightful textures and sumptuous flavors, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. The creamy sauce hugs each piece of pasta perfectly, while the blackened salmon adds an element of excitement that transforms your meal into a memorable experience.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccini pasta
• 1 pound fresh broccoli, cut into small pieces
• 1 pound salmon, pat dry, skin off, cut into 1-inch bites
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded, plus extra for garnish
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring Water to a Boil

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. This process connects directly to the pasta cooking success—so keep a close eye!

Cook the Fettuccini

Add the fettuccini pasta to the boiling water and cook al dente according to package directions (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, so you get that perfect bite!

Add Broccoli

In the last 3-4 minutes of boiling, add fresh broccoli pieces to the pot. This way, they’ll cook through yet still retain a nice crunch.

Drain and Reserve Water

Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the remaining water and set aside. This reserved water is like liquid gold for adjusting your sauce later.

Preparing the Blackened Salmon

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to preheat at 390°F. This makes sure your salmon gets crispy outside while remaining juicy inside.

Season the Salmon

In a medium bowl, combine the salmon bites with olive oil and blackened seasoning. Toss gently to ensure each piece is coated. The seasoning is where the magic begins—feel free to adjust according to your taste.

Air Fry the Salmon

Place salmon bites in an even layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary). Air fry for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Making the Alfredo Sauce

Sauté Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. This step sets the foundation for your sauce, filling it with flavor.

Add Garlic

Mix in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The garlic aroma brings a warm, inviting feel to your cooking space.

Combine Cream and Cheeses

Pour in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, cream cheese, ½ cup of reserved pasta water, blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. This is your moment! The mixture should be rich and creamy, coating the back of a spoon.

Bringing It All Together

Toss in Pasta and Broccoli

Add the cooked fettuccini and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. Adjust the sauce consistency with more reserved pasta water if needed. You want every strand of pasta to be wrapped in that delicious sauce!

Add Salmon

Top the creamy pasta dish with the air-fried blackened salmon bites. Just look at how the colors pop!

Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for color and flavor. This finishing touch brings everything to life!

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the flavors nicely. Imagine the delightful combination of tastes and textures—each element elevates your meal.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the salmon is cut into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Adjust the amount of blackened seasoning according to your spice preference.
  You might want just a hint of spice or a bold punch.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.

Variations

• Swap out fettuccini for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
• Add other delicious vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition; this way, you can enjoy even more color and flavor.
• Use shrimp instead of salmon for a different seafood twist. Each variation keeps the dish exciting!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon ahead of time. Mix them together just before serving for optimal freshness.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon reheating.

4. What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version; however, the consistency will be a bit different.

5. Is the blackened seasoning spicy?
Blackened seasoning has a moderate heat level. Adjust the spice to your liking, either by using less or adding more.

This Blackened Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo is a perfect weeknight meal that brings together the bold flavors of blackened salmon and the creamy comfort of Alfredo sauce. It’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and creates a delightful culinary experience you can share with family and friends. With its vibrant colors and tasty profile, this dish is sure to elevate your dinner table every time. Enjoy each flavorful bite, appreciating the nutrition from the broccoli, and making mealtime a guilt-free pleasure!

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