38g Protein Smoked Salmon Pasta with Spinach & Lemon

If you’re looking to impress your family at dinner while still keeping things simple in the kitchen, then this Smoked Salmon Pasta with Spinach and Lemon is your culinary knight in shining armor. Did you know that salmon is packed with protein, boasting around 38 grams in just a 6-ounce serving? Imagine creamy pasta, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon tantalizing your senses as they swirl together. You’ll feel like a kitchen superhero without the cape—or the complication.

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Why Smoked Salmon Pasta with Spinach and Lemon is a Family Favorite

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience you and your loved ones can walk through together. The beauty of this smoked salmon pasta lies in its vibrant flavors and minimal cooking time. Using just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly approachable. It’s perfect for weeknights or a special occasion, and believe me, your dinner guests will be raving about it long after the last bite.

Ingredient Breakdown

Gather up these essentials, and you’ll be well on your way to a delightful dinner:

• 1 cup cream
• 1/2 cup crème fraîche
• 3 handfuls fresh spinach
• 1 lemon (zest)
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2/3 lb hot smoked salmon (chopped; or cold smoked salmon)
• 1/2 lb fresh tagliatelle (or dried pasta; cooked 1 minute less than package instructions in heavily salted water)
• 1/2 cup pasta water

Let’s Cook!

Follow these steps for an effortlessly elegant dinner:

1. Heat cream and crème fraîche in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot but not boiling.
2. Add the spinach and cook until it has wilted down, stirring often, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in half the lemon juice and mix, letting it simmer for 1 minute. Here’s a tip: Add a bit more lemon if you love that zing!
4. Afterward, add the rest of the lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper. Taste test and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Gently fold in the smoked salmon, combining everything while allowing it to heat through for about 1 minute.
6. Finish by adding the cooked pasta and pasta water; give it all a solid mix and let it cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot, and remember: adjust lemon juice to your preference!
7. For leftovers, store any remains in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Breakdown

Here’s what you need to know about the nutrition of this dish. A generous serving typically comes in at around 600 calories, with approximately 38 grams of protein, 52 grams of carbs, 30 grams of fat, and 4 grams of fiber. It’s a balanced yet satisfying meal that offers a solid punch of protein, courtesy of the salmon, along with the benefits of leafy greens.

Perfect Pairings

Wondering how to present your masterpiece? Serve the smoked salmon pasta straight from the pan, perhaps with some freshly grated Parmesan on top for that extra indulgence. Pair it with a crisp white wine or Italian sparkling water to cleanse your palate. And don’t forget a simple side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for some crunch and freshness!

How to Store It Right

To keep your leftovers fresh, pop any uneaten pasta into an airtight container and store it in the fridge. Aim to consume it within 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags, which will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat your pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of cream to keep it moist and delicious.

Pro Tips

Here are some expert tips to elevate your cooking experience:

1. For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat dairy products instead of light versions.
2. Always save a little pasta water; it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauces to the perfect consistency.
3. Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives for a flavor boost.
4. If you like a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a delightful warmth to the dish.
5. Presentation matters: toss in some fresh spinach or lemon slices as a garnish just before serving for a pop of color.

Easy Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few flavor twists you could experiment with:

1. Seasonal Twist: In the spring, swap spinach for asparagus tips, lightly blanched, to give a fresh crunch and taste.
2. Gourmet Delight: Consider adding a touch of white wine to the cream mixture to elevate the dish’s sophistication.
3. Playful Flavor: Throw in some capers to provide a briny contrast against the richness of the cream and salmon.

Mistakes to Avoid

To help you navigate this culinary journey, here are a few common errors and their easy fixes:

1. Overcooking the pasta? Remember to cook it just a minute shy of the package instructions to keep it al dente.
2. Too much acidity? If the sauce becomes overly tangy, balance it with an additional splash of cream and a pinch of sugar.
3. Sauce too thick? Simply add a bit more pasta water to loosen it—take it slow to achieve the perfect consistency.
4. Spinach overly wilted? Add it later in the cooking sequence or stir in just before serving for a brighter color and texture.
5. Boring flavor? Always taste as you go, and don’t shy away from adding herbs or spices to kick things up a notch.

Creative Second-Day Ideas

If you’ve got leftovers, consider these inventive uses:

1. Salad Upgrade: Flake the leftover pasta into a fresh green salad with arugula to create a creamy dressing.
2. Frittata Fusion: Whisk up some eggs and incorporate the pasta into a frittata, perfect for brunch.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Use the pasta as a stuffing for bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender and the top is bubbly.

Quick Questions

Is smoked salmon healthy? Yes, smoked salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and brain function.

Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I adjust the flavor balance? If you find the dish too rich, a squeeze of fresh lemon or a dash of white wine can brighten it remarkably.

What can I use instead of crème fraîche? If you don’t have crème fraîche, sour cream or Greek yogurt can make a great substitute, offering a tangy flavor and creamy consistency.

Now, grab your apron and get cooking—this Smoked Salmon Pasta with Spinach and Lemon is waiting to delight your senses and impress your loved ones!