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Salmon Tortellini with Creamy Basil Sauce – A 30-Minute Dinner Recipe for Busy Nights

Busy evenings call for simple, flavorful meals that don’t keep you in the kitchen for hours. This Salmon Tortellini with Creamy Basil Sauce is the perfect weeknight dinner: it comes together in just 30 minutes, uses wholesome ingredients, and feels restaurant-worthy without the effort. With tender salmon, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious cream cheese–based sauce flavored with basil, dill, and garlic, this dish is comforting yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood while keeping dinner stress-free. This recipe is just one idea in a lineup of easy weeknight dinners you can prepare in under 30 minutes. It’s balanced, family-friendly, and uses fresh produce with a handful of pantry staples.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For 2–3 servings:
Protein:
  • 6 oz salmon fillet skin removed, cut into chunks
Vegetables & Herbs:
  • 1 small tomato diced
  • ½ zucchini sliced into half-moons
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
  • ½ tsp dried dill
Pasta:
  • 8 oz refrigerated tortellini cheese-filled or your choice
Dairy:
  • ⅓ cup cream cheese
  • 3 tbsp shredded mozzarella
Oil:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Seasoning:
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

  • To whip this up quickly, you’ll need:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium pot (for boiling tortellini)
  • Colander (for draining pasta)
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Small grater (for mozzarella, if not pre-shredded)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes).
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add salmon chunks, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until just cooked through.
  3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Basil Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, add garlic, zucchini, and tomato. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in cream cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a creamy base.
  3. Add mozzarella, fresh basil, and dill, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
  1. Add cooked tortellini and salmon back into the skillet.
  2. Gently toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
  3. Serve warm, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy sauces can separate.
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Skip the salmon and add mushrooms or spinach.
Protein Swap: Try chicken breast or shrimp instead of salmon.
Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw it completely before cooking.
2. What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled tortellini pairs best with the creamy sauce, but spinach or mushroom versions also work.
3. Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Yes, fresh dill will give a brighter flavor—use about 1 tsp.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta cheese are great alternatives.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—spinach, bell peppers, or peas fit perfectly.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini if available.
7. Can I meal prep this dish?
It’s best fresh, but you can cook the salmon and chop veggies ahead of time.
8. Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is tender and adds extra nutrients.
9. Can I bake this instead of cooking in a skillet?
You could assemble it in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly for a casserole version.
10. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy sauce and tortellini make it appealing for kids.
🏁 Conclusion
This Salmon Tortellini with Creamy Basil Sauce is proof that quick meals can also be indulgent and delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner in 30 minutes or less. It’s versatile, nourishing, and perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
Make it part of your two-week easy dinner rotation, and you’ll always have a go-to recipe that keeps everyone at the table happy.