Smoked Salmon Pasta
An elegant yet simple pasta dish featuring delicate smoked salmon in a luscious lemon-dill cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect choice for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Pasta
- b.Bring a large pot of water (about 4-6 quarts) to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp of salt.
- c.Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- d.Before draining, carefully reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This is essential for the sauce.
- e.Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Cream Sauce
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- c.Stir in the lemon zest, fresh dill, and drained capers.
- d.Season the sauce with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine Pasta and Sauce
- b.Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce.
- c.Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until the pasta is well-coated.
- d.If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches a silky, coating consistency.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Fold in Salmon and Serve
- b.Ensure the skillet is off the heat. Gently fold in the flaked smoked salmon. The residual heat from the pasta and sauce will warm it through perfectly without overcooking it.
- c.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- d.Divide the pasta among four plates, garnish with extra fresh dill and a crack of black pepper, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Reserve pasta water! The starchy water is the secret to a silky, emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- 2Add the smoked salmon off the heat. This prevents it from becoming tough and overly salty, preserving its delicate texture.
- 3Use fresh ingredients. Fresh dill and freshly squeezed lemon juice provide a brightness that bottled versions can't match.
- 4Don't rinse the pasta. The starch on the surface of the pasta helps the creamy sauce adhere better.
- 5For a richer sauce, you can stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream.
- 6Rinse your capers to remove excess brine, which can make the dish too salty.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or baby arugula at the end until just wilted. Sautéed mushrooms or steamed asparagus also work well.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a gentle kick of heat.
Herb VariationsHerb Variations
While dill is classic, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or a small amount of tarragon.
Different SalmonDifferent Salmon
For a smokier, flakier texture, try using hot-smoked salmon instead of cold-smoked (lox-style) salmon.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Smoked salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are crucial for brain health and have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
Excellent Source of Protein
Salmon provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and supporting overall body function.
Provides B Vitamins
This dish is a good source of B vitamins, particularly B12, B6, and niacin, from the salmon. These vitamins are vital for energy production, creating red blood cells, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of this Smoked Salmon Pasta contains approximately 740-760 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the fat content of the heavy cream and salmon.