This creamy salmon pasta dish combines the rich flavors of tender salmon, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon sauce. Balanced with creamy textures and hints of thyme, it’s perfect for a satisfying dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- For the Salmon and Pasta:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) salmon, cut into fillets
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 250g (2 cups) pasta
- For the Sauce:
- 1 pear, peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 300g (10 oz) fresh spinach
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried or fresh
- Sugar, to taste (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Salmon:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the lemon juice and let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Incorporate Spinach and Cream Cheese:
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season and Sweeten:
- Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the flavors.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Serve the salmon and sauce over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Accompany with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Cooking Tips
- For a lighter option, use half cream cheese and half Greek yogurt.
- Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.
- Don’t overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky.
- Toast the garlic lightly for a deeper flavor before adding it to the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.
- Spinach provides essential vitamins, including A, C, and K, as well as iron.
- Lemon juice adds vitamin C and brightens the flavors of the dish.
Dietary Information
- High in protein and healthy fats.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- Contains dairy (cream cheese).
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced flavors: The creamy sauce complements the richness of salmon and the tangy freshness of lemon.
- Easy to make: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite herbs and veggies.
- Elegant yet comforting: A crowd-pleaser for both family meals and dinner parties.
Conclusion
This creamy salmon pasta with spinach and lemon sauce is a dish that hits all the right notes—rich, tangy, and satisfying. The tender salmon, paired with the velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a meal that feels luxurious yet approachable. Serve it up and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right at home!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, thaw the salmon completely before cooking for the best results. - Can I substitute chicken for salmon?
Absolutely, grilled or sautéed chicken works well with this sauce. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or sour cream are great alternatives. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. - What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula are excellent substitutes. - Can I skip the pear in the sauce?
Yes, the pear adds a subtle sweetness but is not essential. - What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are all great options. - Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, prepare the sauce up to a day ahead and reheat gently before serving. - Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are appealing to kids. - Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is recommended for better texture and flavor, but frozen spinach can work in a pinch.