| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 632 | 31g | 12g | 47g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 3g | 52g | 1.1g |
Why I Love British Salmon Pasta Bake
There are myriad reasons why I enjoy this foremost British recipe, Salmon Pasta Bake. It is not merely the harmonious medley of flavors it brings to the table, but also the versatility it extends to the cook that make it absolutely delightful. Born from the humble kitchens of the British isles, it encapsulates an exquisite blend of sturdy pasta, buttery salmon, creamy white sauce, and flavorsome cheese. This dish might appear a far cry from the wild terrains of Montana, where my culinary journey began, but the flexibility it offers in layering and combining flavors – hints at the untamed liberty that my home state’s vast vistas promise.
A Blend of Old and New
Throughout my diverse culinary journey, I have been always driven by my passion for creating new flavor combinations that not only satisfy but delight and surprise. This is something I learnt from Jamie Oliver, the incredible British chef known for his surprising twists on classic recipes. With this Salmon Pasta Bake, I get to experiment with ingredients that are familiar yet distinct from what I grew up with. This dish doesn’t hold bison, venison or huckleberries, but the fresh salmon fillet in this bake reminds me of the equally luscious fish that swims in the crystal-clear streams of Montana.
The Power of Flexibility
When engaging in the creation of this dish, I value more than just the ingredients. It is the versatility that a recipe like this offers that drives my culinary inspiration. Will I add some extra cheese to create a creamier texture or do I cut back on the breadcrumbs for a smoother surface? Each change results in a wholly different experience. Even the way the Salmon Pasta Bake is prepared – the salmon roasted and shredded, pasta cooked until it’s perfectly al dente, and the white sauce kept gooey and aromatic – allows the dish to be seamlessly adaptable to anyone’s palate. These considerations keep the process intriguing and interesting, and they are part of why I love this recipe.
This recipe holds a potent reminder of why I’m drawn towards the culinary arts: the sheer joy of fusing ingredients and techniques from diverse cuisines, and crafting something tasty that provides comfort and pleasure. Each time I prepare the Salmon Pasta Bake, and see the golden brown color atop the dish as it emerges from the oven, I’m as excited as I was the first time I experimented with Montana’s rustic flavors.
What You’ll Need
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds fresh salmon fillet
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups white sauce (made from 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, 2 cups of milk, salt and white pepper)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the salmon fillet to the skillet. Cook until the salmon is lightly browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the salmon from the skillet, let it cool, and flake with a fork. Set aside.
Step Three
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for a minute until it becomes fragrant. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked salmon, garlic and parsley mixture, grated cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, white sauce, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until everything is well combined.
Step Five
Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Step Six
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Salmon Pasta Bake!
