Salmon Spinach Pasta

Salmon spinach pasta reminds me of the first time I decided to cook dinner for a friend who absolutely loved seafood when I wanted to create something creamy, comforting, and a little bit fancy without spending hours in the kitchen so I combined tender salmon with fresh spinach and silky pasta and added a bright touch of lemon and when we sat down to eat we both agreed it tasted like something you’d get at a cozy little Italian bistro and from that moment it became one of my favorite dishes to make for special dinners at home.

Now whenever I make salmon spinach pasta it feels like an instant way to treat myself to something elegant and delicious and I love how the rich salmon melts into the creamy sauce and the spinach adds a pop of color and freshness and the lemon zest brings a light, zippy finish that ties everything together beautifully and it’s the kind of meal that feels impressive but is secretly so easy and quick to make.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Salmon fillets – Add tender, rich bites of seafood that elevate the dish.
• Fettuccine or linguine – Perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
• Fresh spinach – Brings a bright, earthy flavor and beautiful green color.
• Heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety and luscious.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
• Lemon zest – Brightens the entire dish with a fresh citrus kick.
• Olive oil – Helps cook the salmon and start the sauce.
• Garlic – Infuses the dish with warm, savory flavor.
• Salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds gentle warmth and a little bite.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – To cook the salmon and build the creamy sauce.
• Large pot – For boiling the pasta until perfectly al dente.
• Tongs – To toss and coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
• Knife – For chopping and zesting the lemon.
• Cutting board – Keeps your prep neat and safe.
• Microplane or zester – For the lemon zest.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get each ingredient just right.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente then I drain and save a little pasta water for later.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the salmon fillets seasoning with salt and black pepper and cook for a few minutes on each side until just cooked through then I remove them and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet I add minced garlic and cook until fragrant stirring constantly.

Step 4

Then I pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently until it starts to thicken slightly.

Step 5

I stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6

Next I add the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted stirring so it mixes evenly into the sauce.

Step 7

I break the salmon into large chunks and gently fold it into the sauce.

Step 8

Then I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together using tongs adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 9

Finally I top the pasta with lemon zest and extra Parmesan before serving for a bright, flavorful finish.

Tips

If you want to make it lighter you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a splash of white wine. I also sometimes add cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. And if you like extra lemon flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving!

Ways to Serve

I love serving salmon spinach pasta on its own with some crusty bread to soak up the sauce but it also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad. It’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights when you want something elegant yet easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make salmon spinach pasta ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well though you may need to add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Can I use smoked salmon for salmon spinach pasta?

Yes! Just add it at the end without cooking it in the skillet since it’s already cooked.

Can I freeze salmon spinach pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh but you can freeze it and reheat gently on the stove.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this salmon spinach pasta a try! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Share your photos and let me know if you put your own twist on it!

Happy Cooking!

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