Slow Cooker Tuscan Salmon with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Penne is a delightful dish that brings a touch of Italian elegance to your dinner table. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Tuscan herbs with the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce, all wrapped around tender salmon and perfectly cooked penne pasta. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner with family. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones while the house fills with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and herbs.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. You might also consider serving it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a touch of color and added nutrition, steamed asparagus or green beans make excellent sides. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.

Servings: 4

4 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounces penne pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Place the salmon in the slow cooker.

In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the salmon.

Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the salmon is cooked through.

About 20 minutes before serving, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Once the salmon is cooked, gently stir in the fresh spinach and cooked penne pasta into the slow cooker.

Let everything heat through for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you have picky eaters, consider using chicken instead of salmon, as it might be more familiar to some. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your family's taste preferences.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove