Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe to Try Today

Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish is a delightful culinary creation that brings together the rich flavors of salmon and the vibrant freshness of spinach, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a nutritious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Originating from the Mediterranean, where seafood and greens are staples, this recipe has gained popularity for its health benefits and delicious taste.

People love this Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The tender, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta, while the spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a go-to choice. Join me as we explore how to create this mouthwatering Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or linguine works great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce later. 4. **Drain and Set Aside**: Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Salmon

5. **Season the Salmon**: While the pasta is cooking, take your salmon fillet and season it with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice. This will enhance the flavor of the fish. 6. **Cook the Salmon**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillet in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. 7. **Remove and Flake**: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate. Let it cool for a minute, then use a fork to flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Making the Sauce

8. **Sauté Garlic**: In the same skillet used for the salmon, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. 9. **Add Spinach**: Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted. 10. **Pour in Cream**: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the garlic and spinach. 11. **Add Cheese and Seasonings**: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. 12. **Incorporate Lemon**: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combining Everything

13. **Add Pasta to Sauce**: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. 14. **Incorporate Salmon**: Gently fold in the flaked salmon, being careful not to break it up too much. You want to keep some nice chunks of salmon in the dish. 15. **Adjust Consistency**: If the pasta seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving the Dish

16. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the salmon spinach pasta in bowls or on plates. 17. **Garnish**: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. 18. **Enjoy**: Grab a fork and dig in! This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Tips and Variations

– **Pasta Choices**: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier option. – **Vegetable Additions**

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Salmon Spinach Pasta dish, I can’t emphasize enough why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. The combination of tender salmon, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of flavors that is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. It’s a dish that brings together the richness of the salmon with the freshness of the spinach, making it a wholesome meal that you can feel good about serving to your family or guests. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a light lemon vinaigrette salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this recipe by adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist. You could even swap out the salmon for shrimp or chicken if you prefer, making it versatile enough to suit any palate. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Salmon Spinach Pasta a try. I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print