Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish
A healthy and delicious Salmon Spinach Pasta dish that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 ounces 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
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice.
Cooking
- 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 as needed.
- 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 the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for added freshness.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.