Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until flaky.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and squeeze in lemon juice. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.

Return cooked pasta and salmon to the skillet. Toss gently to combine. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.

Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.