Description
This Spinach Salmon Pasta is the ultimate comforting yet healthy meal. Tender flakes of salmon and fresh spinach are tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy, garlicky sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights but fancy enough for guests!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Salmon:
Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside to cool slightly, then flake into large pieces.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine:
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Gently fold in flaked salmon, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Creamy Variation: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
Pasta Options: Works great with any pasta—try linguine or bowties!
Add-Ins: Sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the salmon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired