# Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo with Broccoli: A Flavorful Weeknight Winner
If you're anything like me, the thought of preparing dinner after a long day can feel like scaling a mountain—especially when those cute little grumbles from the kids or your partner remind you that they *haven’t eaten since lunch.* Enter **Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo with Broccoli**! This dish is not just a mouthwatering masterpiece; it's also a quick solution for those frenetic weeknights when you need something delicious on the table—and fast.
## Why You'll Love This Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious. Not only is it packed with omega-3 fatty acids and the vibrant crunch of broccoli, but it’s also a one-dish wonder that will make your kitchen smell like heaven on a rainy day (or any day, really). Moreover, the delightful kick from the spice blend elevates a classic alfredo sauce and transforms it into an exciting culinary adventure!
### Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the fabulous ingredients you'll need:
- **Salmon** fillets (4 pieces, skin removed if you prefer)
- **Broccoli florets** (2 cups, chopped)
- **Pasta** (fettuccine works, about 8 ounces)
- **Olive oil** (2 tablespoons)
- **Butter** (2 tablespoons)
- **Heavy cream** (1 cup)
- **Parmesan cheese** (1 cup, grated)
- **Garlic** (3 cloves, minced)
- **Lemon juice** (from 1 lemon)
- **Blackened seasoning** (2 tablespoons; you can make your own or buy it)
- **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
### Cooking Steps
1. **Prep Your Ingredients**: Before you turn on the stove, gather everything together. Honestly, it helps to be organized. Wear your favorite apron if that makes you feel like a chef (I promise nobody will judge).
2. **Cook the Pasta**: In a large pot, boil water, add a pinch of salt, and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once done, save about a cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
3. **Sauté the Broccoli**: In a large pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and toss in those beautiful broccoli florets. Sauté for about 4 minutes until bright green and tender. They should still have a bit of crunch—you want them to stand out in the dish! Remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. **Blacken the Salmon**: In that very same pan, crank up the heat to medium-high and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Pat your salmon fillets dry, then season both sides generously with blackened seasoning. Place them skin-side down (if you have skin) in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely charred and cooked through. Don't forget to channel your inner Gordon Ramsay here; we want it to look fabulous!
5. **Make the Alfredo Sauce**: In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant—seriously, you’ll want to stop and enjoy that moment! Pour in the heavy cream, and as it begins to simmer, gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Add some of that reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. **Combine It All**: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli in the sauce. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over everything for that zesty kick. You can adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste—always taste as you go!
7. **Plate and Serve**: Plate the pasta mixture, top it with the blackened salmon, and sprinkle with a bit more Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Voilà! You've created a dish that deserves a spot in the culinary hall of fame (or at least your dining table)!
### Cooking Tips
- **Alternative Seasoning**: If you don’t have blackened seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme will work in a pinch!
- **Don’t Overcook the Salmon**: Fish can turn from juicy to dry quicker than you can say “dinner is served.” Keep an eye on it!
- **Leftover Sauce**: If you happen to have leftovers, keep the pasta and sauce separate to avoid the dreaded mushiness!
### A Personal Note from My Kitchen to Yours
This Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo became a staple at our family gatherings after my kids devoured it at the first attempt! Seriously, they asked for seconds—and when kids ask for more salmon? You know you've struck culinary gold. This dish has also sparked spontaneous dance parties in our kitchen—fueling not just our stomachs but our family bonding, which is the real victory.
### FAQs
- **Can I replace chicken for salmon?** Sure! Chicken works beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- **How can I keep leftovers fresh?** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove.
- **Can I use frozen broccoli?** Definitely! Just thaw it before adding to the dish.
There you have it! This **Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo with Broccoli** is bound to become a favorite, bewitching not just your taste buds but also your busy weeknights. Remember, cooking isn’t just about the meals we create; it’s about the memories we make around the table. So, grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and get ready to impress!
For more comforting recipes, check out my [Creamy Tomato Basil Soup](https://al3ab.tech/creamy-tomato-basil-soup), a warm hug for those chilly days, or [Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken](https://al3ab.tech/easy-lemon-garlic-chicken) for another weeknight winner!
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**Meta Description**: Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!
Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo with Broccoli
A quick and delicious meal, Spicy Blackened Salmon Alfredo with Broccoli combines flavorsome salmon with creamy Alfredo sauce and crunchy broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Gather all of your ingredients and organize them before starting.
Cooking
- Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Save about a cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the broccoli for about 4 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove and set aside.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add a tablespoon of olive oil, and season the salmon with blackened seasoning. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until charred and cooked through.
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté until fragrant, then whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, adding lemon juice and adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Plate the mixture, top with the blackened salmon, and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese as desired.
Notes
For alternative seasoning, use a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Be cautious not to overcook the salmon to keep it juicy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.