This Creamy Salmon Pasta is a delightful blend of tender salmon fillets, creamy spinach sauce, and zesty lemon flavors. The dish is perfectly balanced with the rich cream cheese sauce, fresh spinach, and hearty pasta, making it a comforting yet sophisticated meal. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
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: 250g (2 cups)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Tomato Paste: 1 teaspoon
- Spinach: 300g (10 oz), fresh
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Cream Cheese: 2 tablespoons
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried or fresh
- Sugar: To taste (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Salmon:
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. 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 olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Add Lemon Juice and Broth:
- Pour lemon juice into the skillet and let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Incorporate Spinach and Cream Cheese:
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add cream cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season and Sweeten:
- Stir in thyme and season with 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 sauce over the top.
- Serve the salmon and sauce over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for added freshness.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Add a glass of chilled white wine to elevate the dining experience.
- Serve alongside steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding salmon to achieve a golden crust.
- Wilt spinach gradually to retain its vibrant green color.
- Balance the lemon juice with sugar if the sauce is too tangy.
- Toss pasta with a drizzle of olive oil after draining to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health.
- Spinach: Packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants.
- Lemon Juice: Provides a vitamin C boost and aids digestion.
- Pasta: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy, gluten, and fish.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- For a dairy-free version, replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze sauce and salmon separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced Flavors: Combines creamy, tangy, and savory notes perfectly.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, ideal for weeknights.
- Nutritious: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
- Elegant Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes.
Conclusion
This Creamy Salmon Pasta with Spinach and Lemon Sauce is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. The rich salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy, zesty sauce and hearty pasta, making it a satisfying and impressive dish. Whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors in every bite!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even results.
- Can I substitute spinach? Kale or arugula work well as alternatives.
- What pasta works best? Linguine, fettuccine, or penne are great choices.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
- How do I prevent salmon from sticking? Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding salmon.
- Can I add vegetables? Yes, cherry tomatoes or mushrooms would complement the dish well.
- Can I use a different protein? Chicken or shrimp can replace salmon if preferred.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the sauce? Yes, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 2 months.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? Add a little more cream cheese or reduce the sauce longer over low heat.
Enjoy this vibrant and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!