This simple garlic- and oil-infused salmon and pasta is a beloved dish in Italy and a basic recipe that everyone should have in their repertoire. I’ve heard that this pasta is a chef’s go-to meal after hours behind a hot stove filling orders—because of its ease of preparation and fresh flavor.

Directions

Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse salmon and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

2. Cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let rest for 10 minutes while preparing pasta.

Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Add two tablespoons salt and pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Reserve one and a half cups of pasta water before draining.

3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add tomatoes and garlic and cook for two minutes, until garlic is golden. Add red pepper flakes and reserved pasta water, then bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low, add one teaspoon of salt, and simmer for five minutes. Add drained pasta to sauce and mix well. Stir in 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley.

5. Remove from heat, then allow the pasta to rest and absorb the sauce. Season with additional salt, if desired.

6. Plate pasta, top with salmon and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.