Are you ready for a culinary adventure that feels like dining at a cozy Italian trattoria?
Today, I’m sharing one of my all-time favorite pasta dishes: a creamy, dreamy bowl of pasta with fresh spinach and tender, flaky salmon. This is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special, yet it’s so simple you can whip it up even on your busiest nights.
Imagine twirling velvety pasta ribbons coated in a light, garlicky cream sauce, each forkful carrying the earthy taste of spinach and the subtle, rich flavor of perfectly cooked salmon. Whether you’re a seasoned pasta enthusiast or just someone looking to jazz up your dinner routine, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen repertoire.
What makes this recipe so special?
- It’s quick and easy: From pan to plate in under 30 minutes.
- It’s nutritious: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and iron from the spinach.
- It’s versatile: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes, dairy alternatives, or added herbs.
Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Spinach and Tender Salmon
Delicious Pasta with Fresh Spinach and Tender Salmon
Nutrition
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 300 g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 200 g fresh spinach washed and drained
- 300 g salmon fillet skinless and cubed
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 50 g grated parmesan cheese
- 1 zest lemon
- 1/2 juice lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Extra grated parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley optional
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Cooking the Salmon
- Add the salmon cubes to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes, turning gently to ensure all sides are lightly golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Spinach Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
- Gradually add the grated parmesan and lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts, and the sauce is smooth.
Combining Everything
- Return the salmon cubes to the skillet, gently folding them into the sauce.
- Add the cooked spaghetti, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Tips and Variations
The inspiration behind this dish
As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but think about its origins. I first created this recipe on a chilly autumn evening when I craved something warm and comforting but didn’t want to compromise on freshness. The spinach gives the dish a vibrant pop of green that feels like a nod to spring, while the salmon brings a luxurious richness that makes every bite feel indulgent.
Tips and tricks for the perfect pasta dish
- Use fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Opt for wild-caught salmon if you can—it has a superior flavor and texture compared to farmed varieties.
- Don’t skip the garlic! Its fragrant, savory notes are the secret to tying the dish together.
Why not give it a try?
This dish is a wonderful way to impress dinner guests or treat yourself after a long day. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Do you prefer a different type of fish or want to add a sprinkle of Parmesan? Let’s share tips and make this dish even better together.
