Pasta Primavera with Honey-Citrus Salmon

Name: Pasta Primavera with Honey-Citrus Salmon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 salmon fillets; 3 tbsp honey; Zest and juice of 1 orange; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love how this Pasta Primavera with Honey-Citrus Salmon combines fresh, vibrant vegetables with a sweet and tangy salmon dish. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The honey-citrus glaze on the salmon caramelizes beautifully, bringing out the flavors of the salmon while complementing the colorful veggies. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that feels both indulgent and healthy, making it a staple in our home that I just can’t get enough of.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:37:27.288Z

When I first crafted the recipe for Pasta Primavera with Honey-Citrus Salmon, I wanted something that would be both vibrant and satisfying. The trick lies in the honey-citrus glaze; it not only adds a lovely sheen but enhances the natural flavors of the salmon beautifully. The balance of sweet and tangy really livens up the dish, and I’ve found that serving it with a light white wine elevates the experience even further.

It’s always exciting to see how different vegetables can change the character of a dish. I often experiment with seasonal produce, and each option brings a new twist to the pasta. Zucchini and bell peppers are usually my go-to choices, but don’t hesitate to throw in some asparagus or cherry tomatoes for added variety. This recipe is all about freshness and creativity!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and flavors packed into every bite
The honey-citrus salmon glaze is easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor
A perfect dinner option that's both healthy and indulgent

      

Maximizing Vegetable Flavor

One of the keys to achieving vibrant and flavorful vegetables in this Pasta Primavera is the sautéing technique. When you heat the olive oil over medium heat, it allows the vegetables to tenderize without losing their crispness. I recommend not overcrowding the skillet; if needed, cook in batches to ensure each piece gets direct contact with the heat. Look for the vegetables to turn slightly golden around the edges, as this caramelization enhances their natural sweetness.

Broccoli florets add a hearty bite to the dish, and their bright green color shines against the other vegetables. To avoid overcooking the broccoli, I suggest adding it to the skillet last, giving it only about 2-3 minutes of sautéing time. This way, they maintain a vibrant color and crunchy texture, adding to the overall appeal of the dish.

Perfecting the Salmon

When cooking the salmon, achieving that perfect sear is crucial for flavor and texture. Start with a medium-high heat, and make sure the skin side is facing down in the skillet to get a crispy exterior. If you're concerned about sticking, using a non-stick skillet or ensuring your pan is adequately oiled can help. Keep an eye on the salmon; once it begins to flake and is opaque at the edges, it’s usually almost ready to turn.

The honey-citrus glaze not only infuses the salmon with flavor but also creates a caramelized crust when brushed on during the last minute of cooking. This step is essential to prevent the glaze from burning, so I recommend lowering the heat slightly during this final minute, allowing the glaze to become sticky and glossy rather than burnt.

Serving and Storage Tips

For serving, I recommend plating each portion with the salmon placed on top of the linguine and vegetables. This arrangement not only looks more appealing but also allows the glaze to drizzle down, coating the pasta with its sweet and tangy flavors. To enhance the dish further, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, which can brighten the flavors and add a touch of freshness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back some of the initial moisture and flavor. This dish also works well as a meal prep option; just keep the salmon and pasta separate until you're ready to eat, ensuring everything remains fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz linguine pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey-Citrus Salmon

4 salmon fillets
3 tbsp honey
Zest and juice of 1 orange
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. When al dente, drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Honey-Citrus Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together honey, orange zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, and minced garlic. Stir until blended.

Cook the Salmon

In another skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side. During the last minute, brush the honey-citrus glaze on top of the salmon.

Combine and Serve

In the skillet with the vegetables, add the drained linguine and toss to combine. Serve the pasta Primavera topped with the glazed salmon and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the pasta just before serving.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to substitute the linguine pasta with any pasta of your choice, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options. Cooking times may vary slightly, so always check the package instructions. Additionally, if you're in the mood for something different, try adding other vegetables like asparagus, peas, or even spinach to the mix—they all work beautifully with the honey-citrus salmon.

When it comes to the salmon, you can swap it out for other fish like trout or even chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times based on the thickness of the proteins; chicken, for instance, may require a few extra minutes to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

Make-Ahead Considerations

This recipe is delightful as a make-ahead meal, especially the vegetable portion. You can prep all the vegetables a day in advance and store them in a sealed container in the fridge. When it's time to cook, simply sauté them from cold; this minimizes the time you spend during dinner preparation. For the salmon, it’s best to prepare the glaze in advance but apply it just before cooking to keep the flavors fresh.

If you're batch cooking, consider doubling the recipe to enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. This dish reheats well, and the flavors meld beautifully during storage, making for a satisfying meal that feels just as good as the first serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

→ What vegetables can I substitute in this dish?

Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or even peas.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta and glaze ahead of time, then quickly reheat before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can replace salmon with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.