Smoked salmon pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of smoked salmon with creamy pasta. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a gourmet touch. The light, silky sauce pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor of the salmon, making this dish an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
What is Smoked Salmon Pasta Recipe?
Smoked salmon pasta is a seafood pasta dish featuring smoked salmon, which adds a smoky, slightly salty flavor to the creamy pasta sauce. Typically, it is made with fettuccine or spaghetti, coated with a creamy sauce made from ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, or butter. The salmon is usually added towards the end, allowing its flavors to blend with the creamy sauce. This pasta is often served with a touch of fresh herbs like dill or parsley, enhancing the dish’s aroma and flavor profile. It’s a quick, sophisticated meal that delivers a lot of taste with minimal effort.
Quick Facts
| Course | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Italian / Seafood |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Calories | Approx. 500 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this smoked salmon pasta:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or frying pan for making the sauce
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Colander to drain the pasta
- Knife for chopping the smoked salmon and fresh herbs
- Measuring cups and spoons for the cream and seasonings
- Grater (optional) for fresh Parmesan cheese
Ingredients
To make this simple and flavorful dish, here’s what you will need:
- 200g smoked salmon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 300g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added freshness)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the pan, stirring gently. Add the cream cheese (if using) and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Smoked Salmon: Toss the chopped smoked salmon into the sauce, stirring to combine. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy smoked salmon sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt, black pepper, and a bit of lemon zest for extra freshness. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Serve: Serve immediately while it’s hot, and enjoy your smoked salmon pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Essential Note:
If you’re not a fan of heavy cream, you can replace it with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version. The lemon zest adds a zesty, fresh touch that balances the rich flavor of the salmon, but it’s optional.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 70mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Recipe Notes
- The addition of cream cheese is optional but makes the sauce extra creamy and luxurious.
- For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat pasta or add vegetables like spinach or peas for more texture and nutrients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra cream or water.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Use fresh smoked salmon: The fresher your salmon, the more flavor it will add to your dish.
- Customize the sauce: Add a touch of white wine or Dijon mustard to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
- Don’t skip the pasta water: Adding some reserved pasta water to the sauce helps create a silky, smooth texture.
Conclusion
Smoked salmon pasta is an elegant, yet simple dish that combines creamy textures with the bold flavor of smoked salmon. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of creamy sauce, smoky salmon, and fresh herbs offers a perfect balance of flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds. It’s a dish that’s both impressive and comforting, making it ideal for any occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how easy and rewarding it is to make this flavorful, restaurant-quality meal at home!
