Creamy Salmon and Tortellini Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This fast and easy dinner for two combines tender salmon with creamy tortellini and fresh vegetables. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal you can prepare in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 6 oz (180g) salmon fillet
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz (220g) refrigerated tortellini
• 1/3 cup cream cheese
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1/2 zucchini, chopped
• 1/2 tsp dried dill
• 2 Tbsp fresh chopped basil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 Tbsp mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare your vegetables by chopping the tomato and zucchini. Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the salmon, dried dill, and chopped tomato. Pour in a tablespoon of water, season with a pinch of salt, cover with a lid, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the cream cheese and black pepper. If the sauce seems too thick, add another tablespoon of water to create a creamy consistency.
4. Step 4: Add the refrigerated tortellini to the pan. Cook in the sauce for 3-4 minutes or according to the package instructions until the tortellini is tender.
5. Step 5: Add the minced garlic, fresh basil, chopped zucchini, and mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine and allow the cheese to melt slightly.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer sauce.
• Use spinach or kale instead of zucchini for a different green vegetable.
• Swap salmon for cooked chicken or shrimp if preferred.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used, but adjust cooking times according to package instructions. You may need to cook it a bit longer in the sauce.

Is it necessary to add water when cooking the salmon?

Adding water helps steam the salmon and soften the tomato, creating a light sauce. If your tomatoes are very juicy, you can reduce or skip the extra water.

Creamy Salmon and Tortellini Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 91 reviews

A quick and flavorful dinner for two featuring tender salmon with creamy tortellini, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked together in a single pan for an easy and satisfying meal.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & Dairy

• 6 oz / 180g salmon fillet
• 1/3 cup cream cheese
• 3 Tbsp mozzarella cheese

Vegetables & Herbs

• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1/2 zucchini, chopped
• 2 Tbsp fresh chopped basil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried dill

Pasta & Oils

• 8 oz / 220 g refrigerated tortellini
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Seasonings

• Pinch of salt
• Black pepper to taste
• Water as needed (approx. 2 Tbsp)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and chop the zucchini, tomato, garlic, and basil to have them ready for cooking.
2. Cook Salmon and Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the salmon pieces, dried dill, and chopped tomato. Pour in 1 tablespoon of water and add a pinch of salt. Cover with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes to gently steam and cook the salmon and vegetables.
3. Create Creamy Sauce: Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and black pepper. If the mixture is too thick due to less juicy tomatoes, add an additional tablespoon of water to form a creamy sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly.
4. Add Tortellini: Stir in the refrigerated tortellini pasta, coating it well with the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes or follow the package instructions on cooking time while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Add minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped zucchini, and mozzarella cheese to the pan. Stir gently to combine and allow the mozzarella to melt slightly, creating a rich and flavorful finish.
6. Serve: Serve the dish immediately. Optionally, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.

Notes

• Use refrigerated tortellini for faster cooking, but frozen can be used if cooking time is adjusted.
• If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, use fresh dill instead of dried.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
• Parmesan cheese topping is optional but adds a savory finishing touch.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: salmon dinner, easy dinner for two, creamy tortellini, quick stovetop meal, salmon pasta recipe, basil salmon, cream cheese sauce