Ingredients:

• Salmon: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), cut into fillets
• Salt: To taste
• Pepper: To taste
• Pear: 1, peeled and diced
• Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
• Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon
• Pasta: 250 g (2 cups)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Tomato Paste: 1 teaspoon
• Spinach: 300 g (10 oz), fresh
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Cream Cheese: 2 tablespoons
• Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried or fresh
• Sugar: To taste (optional)

Making It Step by Step:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon and add minced garlic on top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. While the salmon is baking, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced pear and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add the cream cheese and thyme, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Gently fold in the baked salmon pieces, making sure not to break them apart too much.
3. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the creamy salmon pasta to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with additional thyme or fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
3. Serve immediately with a side of lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.

Cooking Tips:

• Salmon Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh salmon, you can use canned salmon or even smoked salmon for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese Alternatives: You can substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative or even heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Be sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best for this dish to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Sugar: The pinch of sugar is optional, but it helps balance the acidity of the tomato paste and lemon juice, especially if you prefer a more balanced, slightly sweeter flavor.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
• Freezing: While this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the salmon may change slightly upon reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6-7 g (from the pear and optional sugar)
• Sodium: 700-800 mg (depending on seasoning and broth used)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1,200 mg (from the salmon)

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of fish?
   • Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other types of fish like cod, trout, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is there a dairy-free option?
   • For a dairy-free version, you can use a vegan cream cheese or replace it with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy consistency.
3. Can I use frozen spinach?
   • Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
   • While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time. Add the salmon just before serving to maintain its texture.
5. How do I make it gluten-free?
   • To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, like broth and tomato paste, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Salmon Pasta with Pear and Spinach is a delightful dish that’s both nourishing and flavorful. The salmon provides a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the pear adds a touch of natural sweetness that complements the savory sauce. The addition of spinach not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also brings a burst of vibrant color and fresh flavor. Whether you’re making this dish for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, indulgent texture balanced by the freshness of the pear and spinach makes it a perfect comfort meal that doesn’t sacrifice health for flavor. Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions and adaptable ingredients, it’s a versatile recipe that you can make your own. Enjoy the combination of creamy pasta, tender salmon, and vibrant spinach in every bite!