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Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish

Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish
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★★★★★

5.3 from 21 reviews

A flavorful and nutritious Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish combining tender salmon, fresh spinach, and creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is easy to prepare, rich in protein and omega-3s from salmon, and packed with vibrant greens, making it an ideal meal for both weeknights and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
  • 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 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)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil to flavor the pasta as it cooks.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water to help create a creamy sauce later.
  4. Drain and Set Aside: Drain pasta in a colander and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking while preparing the sauce.
  5. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice to enhance flavor.
  6. Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and flakes easily.
  7. Remove and Flake: Transfer salmon to a plate, let cool slightly, then flake into bite-sized pieces with a fork.
  8. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant without burning.
  9. Add Spinach: Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted.
  10. Pour in Cream: Lower heat and add heavy cream, stirring to combine with garlic and spinach.
  11. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually stir in grated Parmesan until the cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
  12. Incorporate Lemon: Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  13. Add Pasta to Sauce: Toss drained pasta into the sauce, coating it evenly.
  14. Incorporate Salmon: Gently fold flaked salmon into the pasta, preserving chunks.
  15. Adjust Consistency: If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired creaminess.
  16. Plate the Pasta: Serve the salmon spinach pasta in bowls or plates.
  17. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
  18. Enjoy: Eat immediately or refrigerate leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • Use fresh salmon for best flavor and texture.
  • Reserve pasta water helps adjust sauce thickness and adds starch for creaminess.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional for a mild spicy kick.
  • Toss pasta with a little olive oil after draining to prevent sticking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days but are best fresh.
  • Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon pasta, spinach pasta, creamy pasta, healthy pasta recipe, Mediterranean seafood dish, fettuccine with salmon, quick dinner recipes

Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/salmon-spinach-pasta-dish/