Creamy Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich flavors of creamy salmon pasta paired with vibrant mixed greens. This delightful dish features perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce, complemented by the smoky allure of salmon and the crunch of fresh greens. It's an ideal weeknight meal that combines elegance with ease, bringing a taste of gourmet dining right to your kitchen.
This creamy salmon pasta is not just a dish; it's a flavor experience that transcends the ordinary weeknight meal. The combination of rich cream, perfectly cooked pasta, and the delicate smokiness of salmon creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
The Perfect Pairing of Flavors
Creamy salmon pasta is a culinary delight that artfully balances richness with freshness. The heavy cream sauce envelops the pasta, creating a luxurious texture that complements the smoked salmon's bold flavor. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy and smoky notes, making this dish not only satisfying but also incredibly comforting. The addition of fresh dill elevates the flavor profile, bringing a fragrant herbaceous note that beautifully punctuates the dish.
Alongside the indulgent pasta, the vibrant mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast. Dressed simply with lemon juice and seasoning, the greens add a light, crisp element that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce. This combination makes the dish well-rounded and enjoyable, ensuring that each mouthful is both delightful and nourishing.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
This creamy salmon pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave gourmet flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. The entire preparation and cooking process can be accomplished in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of complex cooking techniques.
What makes this dish particularly appealing is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try incorporating seasonal vegetables or swapping out the salmon for another protein like chicken or shrimp. Regardless of your variations, the creamy sauce serves as the perfect base for any protein, ensuring that your dish remains satisfying and delicious.
Pairing Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 300g pasta of choice
- Salt for water
For the Sauce
- 200ml heavy cream
- 100g smoked salmon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
For the Mixed Greens
- 150g mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the smoked salmon, and season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve topped with mixed greens dressed with lemon juice, and garnish with fresh dill.
Enjoy your delightful meal!
Storage and Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, creamy salmon pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. You might want to add a splash of cream or a little pasta water to help revive the sauce's original creaminess.
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can also be transformed into a delightful pasta bake. Simply combine the leftover pasta with some additional cheese and bake until bubbly. This gives new life to the flavors of the creamy salmon pasta and offers a comforting alternative for your next meal.
Nutritional Information
Creamy salmon pasta is not only delicious but also packed with beneficial nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function. Additionally, it provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing meal.
The inclusion of mixed greens adds a dose of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, aiding in digestion. While the heavy cream does contribute to the calorie count, enjoying this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet can certainly be a delightful and healthful choice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Cook the fresh salmon first before adding it to the sauce.
→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Store the pasta and sauce separately, and combine before serving.
Creamy Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens
Savor the rich flavors of creamy salmon pasta paired with vibrant mixed greens. This delightful dish features perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce, complemented by the smoky allure of salmon and the crunch of fresh greens. It's an ideal weeknight meal that combines elegance with ease, bringing a taste of gourmet dining right to your kitchen.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 300g pasta of choice
- Salt for water
For the Sauce
- 200ml heavy cream
- 100g smoked salmon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
For the Mixed Greens
- 150g mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the smoked salmon, and season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve topped with mixed greens dressed with lemon juice, and garnish with fresh dill.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 60g