Salmon Feta Pasta

Salmon Feta Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with creamy feta cheese and juicy cherry tomatoes. Baked together in the oven in a single dish, it develops a rich, savory sauce that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The combination of the saltiness from the feta, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the richness of the salmon makes this dish truly unforgettable.

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity and bold flavors. It’s an easy, fuss-free way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, with the added bonus of minimal cleanup thanks to its one-pan approach.

Why You’ll Love It

You’ll fall for how effortlessly this dish comes together while delivering a complex, layered flavor profile that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy. The baked feta adds a melty, cheesy depth, while the herbs and garlic brighten the dish, making every bite satisfying and full of freshness. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining, this dish always wins admiration.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb skinless salmon fillet

  • 8 oz feta cheese (preferably in a block)

  • 1 lb cherry tomatoes

  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

  • ⅓ teaspoon sea salt (to taste)

  • ⅓ teaspoon pepper (to taste)

  • 8 oz pasta (gemelli or similar)

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make It

Step 1: Roast the Salmon and Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish, add the salmon, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the tomatoes are bursting and feta turns golden.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While baking, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

See also  Pickle pie pizza​

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently break apart the feta and burst the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces, then stir in the chopped basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, thin the sauce with the reserved pasta water for a silky, cohesive dish.

Tips for Success

Rotini pasta with salmon, feta, tomatoes, and basil, seen from a top-down view.
Salmon Feta Pasta
  • Use high-quality feta for a creamier, richer flavor.

  • Let the feta turn golden in the oven for maximum melty goodness.

  • Do not overcook the salmon to keep it tender.

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

  • Toss pasta in the sauce off the heat to prevent sticking.

Variations

  • Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.

  • Top with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

  • Use different pasta shapes like linguine or spaghetti.

  • Incorporate other herbs like dill or parsley.

  • Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra cheesy depth.

FAQs

Can I substitute the salmon with chicken?

Yes, if you prefer a different protein, but the baking time and flavor profile will change.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes give the best burst of flavor, but canned drained tomatoes work in a pinch.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat gently.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, assemble and bake, then store in the fridge. Reheat and toss with fresh herbs before serving.

Is this gluten-free?

Not unless you use gluten-free pasta.

What to serve with it?

Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Print
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Creamy rotini pasta with salmon, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Salmon Feta Pasta


  • Author: Emma Hart
  • Total Time: 55
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb skinless salmon fillet

8 oz feta cheese block

1 lb cherry tomatoes

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/3 tsp sea salt (to taste)

1/3 tsp freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

8 oz pasta (gemelli, penne, or similar)

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange salmon, cherry tomatoes, feta in baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Bake 40–45 mins until tomatoes burst and feta softens.
While baking, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup water.
Mash feta and tomatoes into a sauce, flake salmon, and stir in garlic, basil, flakes.
Add cooked pasta, toss with sauce, add reserved water for cohesion. Serve warm.

Notes

Use good-quality feta. Bake until golden. Gently flake salmon. Brighten with fresh herbs. Toss pasta off heat to avoid sticking.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Category: Main Course, Pasta
  • Method: Baking & Tossing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean / American Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 560
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 370 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: salmon feta pasta, baked feta with salmon, tomato feta pasta, one pan salmon pasta, creamy mediterranean pasta

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