Description
Enjoy a delightful creamy salmon and spinach pasta, featuring fettuccine or linguine in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
- 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)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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. Stir occasionally.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice.
- 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.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet, let it cool, then flake it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Gently fold in the flaked salmon, keeping some chunks intact.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve the salmon spinach pasta in bowls or on plates.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Notes
- 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: Consider adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes