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Grilled Fish and Creamy Pasta Recipe

Grilled Fish and Creamy Pasta Recipe

Livy Lane
This Grilled Fish and Creamy Pasta Recipe brings together tender fish and rich, creamy pasta. It is simple enough for busy weeknights and special enough for guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 625 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 white fish fillets about 5 ounces each
  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fish

  • Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika and Italian seasoning. Let the seasoned fish rest for five minutes while you prepare the pasta.

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Cook until tender but still slightly firm. Reserve half a cup of pasta water.

Grill the Fish

  • Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Add the fish carefully. Cook for four to five minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Check the Fish

  • The fish should become opaque and flake easily with a fork. Avoid cooking it too long because it can become dry. Remove the cooked fillets and keep them warm on a clean plate.

Start the Cream Sauce

  • Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute. Stir gently until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add the Cream

  • Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir slowly and allow it to warm gently. Do not let the cream boil rapidly. Gentle heat helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.

Add Parmesan Cheese

  • Stir the grated Parmesan into the warm cream sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely. Add lemon zest and a small splash of pasta water.

Combine the Pasta

  • Add the cooked pasta directly into the creamy sauce. Toss gently until every strand becomes coated. Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

Finish With Lemon

  • Add fresh lemon juice to the creamy pasta. Taste carefully and adjust the seasoning if needed. The lemon gives the rich sauce a fresh and balanced flavor.

Plate and Garnish

  • Divide the creamy pasta between four plates. Place one grilled fish fillet over each serving. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve immediately while everything remains warm.

Notes

  • Choose fresh fish with firm flesh and a mild flavor.
  • Pat the fish dry before seasoning for better grilling.
  • Do not overcrowd the grill pan.
  • Use medium heat to prevent burning.
  • Avoid overcooking the fish.
  • Reserve pasta water before draining.
  • Add pasta water slowly to control sauce thickness.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting.
  • Add spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Use penne or linguine instead of fettuccine.
  • Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Try salmon instead of white fish for a richer meal.
  • Add mushrooms for extra earthy flavor.
  • Use half-and-half for a lighter creamy sauce.
Keyword Grilled Fish and Creamy Pasta Recipe