A luxurious, creamy pasta dish featuring flaky roasted salmon, tender tagliatelle, and vibrant green peas, all brought together with fresh dill and a hint of lemon. This comforting yet elegant meal is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy salmon tagliatelle is the ultimate balance of indulgence and freshness. The richness of the crème fraîche is brightened with lemon zest and juice, while the dill adds a refreshing herbal note. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s an impressive yet approachable dish. Whether you’re serving it for a quiet dinner at home or hosting a small gathering, this recipe delivers both in flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

10 oz fresh tagliatelle pasta
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1/4 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped
Steamed broccolini (for serving, optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 12–15 minutes, until just cooked through and easily flaked with a fork.
While the salmon roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to package instructions. Two minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the frozen peas. Drain everything together and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, combine crème fraîche, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir gently until the sauce is warmed through and smooth.
Add the drained pasta and peas to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the mixture.
Flake the roasted salmon into large chunks and carefully fold it into the pasta mixture, trying not to break it up too much.
Stir in the chopped dill, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, and serve hot. Optional: serve with steamed broccolini on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Smoked salmon substitute: Use smoked salmon in place of roasted salmon for a quicker, smokier version. Skip the oven step and stir it in at the end.
Cream swap: Use mascarpone or heavy cream instead of crème fraîche for a slightly different texture and richness.
Add-ins: Try adding sautéed leeks, spinach, or shallots to enhance the flavor.
Herbs: Substitute dill with tarragon, parsley, or chives if preferred.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tagliatelle or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the salmon and cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

What can I use instead of crème fraîche?

You can substitute crème fraîche with sour cream, mascarpone, or heavy cream depending on your desired richness and tang.

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes, canned salmon works in a pinch. Just ensure it’s well-drained and flaked before adding it to the pasta.

Is frozen salmon suitable for this recipe?

Absolutely. Thaw frozen salmon thoroughly before roasting it for best results.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can roast the salmon and cook the pasta ahead of time. Assemble everything just before serving.

What wine pairs well with creamy salmon tagliatelle?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce and dill beautifully.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes. The creamy sauce and tender pasta are appealing to most kids. You can reduce the lemon and dill slightly if needed.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms make excellent additions.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Heat the sauce gently and avoid high heat after combining it with the pasta. Stir continuously and add pasta water if needed.

What pasta shapes can I use instead of tagliatelle?

Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne work well in this recipe if tagliatelle is unavailable.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce and delicate salmon texture, which may become grainy when reheated.

Conclusion

Creamy salmon tagliatelle with peas and dill is a refined yet simple dish that brings together comfort and sophistication. The fresh herbs, tender pasta, and rich sauce create a well-balanced meal perfect for a cozy evening or a casual dinner with friends. With versatile ingredients and flexible preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.