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Salmon Spinach Pasta Delight Recipe

4.9 from 142 reviews

A creamy and flavorful salmon spinach pasta that combines tender flaked salmon with fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and a lemon-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste (for pasta water)

Salmon and Flavorings

  • 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauce and Vegetables

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Season the Salmon: Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice to enhance flavor.
  4. Cook the Salmon: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and opaque.
  5. Flake the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then flake it into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring not to burn it.
  7. Cook Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender.
  8. Add Cream: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine well with the spinach and garlic.
  9. Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and the sauce thickens nicely.
  10. Add Lemon & Spices: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
  12. Fold in Salmon: Gently fold the flaked salmon into the pasta, taking care to keep some chunks intact for texture.
  13. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve a creamy, smooth consistency.
  14. Serve: Serve the salmon spinach pasta warm in bowls or plates.
  15. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
  16. Enjoy & Store: Serve immediately and enjoy! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • Use fettuccine or linguine for best results as they hold the sauce nicely.
  • Ensure not to overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky.
  • Reserve pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and improve texture.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to taste for a subtle heat.
  • Leftovers should be reheated gently to avoid breaking the cream sauce.

Keywords: salmon pasta, spinach pasta, creamy salmon pasta, lemon salmon pasta, easy dinner, Italian pasta recipe