Jump to Recipe Print RecipeTwo evenings ago, I found myself staring at an empty fridge, the remnants of takeout no longer inspiring my dinner plans. That’s when I decided to whip up something quick but impressive: Smoked Salmon Spaghetti with Creamy Spinach Sauce. This dish marries the delicate smokiness of salmon with a luscious creamy sauce that coats perfectly cooked spaghetti, offering an elegant twist on the traditional pasta supper. It’s a dazzling choice for anyone seeking a quick and easy dinner that feels like a treat, while also coaxing a few veggies into the mix. You’ll quickly find that not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also offers the comfort we all crave at the end of a long day. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! Why is Smoked Salmon Spaghetti a Must-Try? Effortless Elegance: With minimal prep time, this dish elevates your weeknight dinners into something spectacular without much fuss. Flavor Harmony: The rich creaminess beautifully balances the smoky notes of the salmon, with spinach adding a fresh touch and color. Nutritional Boost: Packed with protein and healthy fats, you’re not just eating comfort food—you’re nourishing your body! Versatile Dish: Customize with ingredients like Garlic Butter Salmon flavors or swap in whole-grain pasta for added nutrition. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties or casual gatherings, it impresses everyone without requiring hours in the kitchen. Elevate your dining experience effortlessly with this delicious and satisfying recipe! Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Ingredients For the Spaghetti • Spaghetti – The base of this dish, providing the perfect foundation for the rich flavors. Feel free to swap in any pasta you love! For the Creamy Sauce • Light Cream – Brings a luxurious consistency to the sauce; substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy cream if preferred. • Reserved Pasta Water – Essential for achieving the right creamy texture; don’t skip this step to bind the sauce beautifully. • Parmesan Cheese – Elevates the flavor profile; freshly grated versions give the best texture. Nutritional yeast is an excellent non-dairy alternative. For the Flavor • Smoked Salmon – Defines the dish with its rich, savory essence; look for wild-caught varieties for the best taste. • Capers – Contributes a briny punch that pairs perfectly with the salmon; olives can be a suitable substitution. • Dill – Offers a fresh, aromatic note; feel free to replace it with parsley or basil based on your preference. • Cracked Pepper – Allows you to season to taste; use freshly cracked for an added kick. For the Green Touch • Spinach Leaves – Adds a nutritional boost and vibrant color; swap in kale or arugula for variety. Now you’re all set to create a delicious plate of Smoked Salmon Spaghetti that promises to satisfy your cravings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. While the pasta cooks, keep an eye on it; you want it tender but firm. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander. Step 2: Combine Cream and Pasta In a medium pan over low heat, return the drained spaghetti to the pot and pour in the reserved pasta water along with 1 cup of light cream. Stir gently to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should start to thicken slightly, coating the pasta with a creamy consistency that will embrace all the flavors of your Smoked Salmon Spaghetti. Step 3: Add Spinach Next, toss in a generous handful of fresh spinach leaves into the creamy pasta. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and soften while blending seamlessly with the spaghetti. The vibrant color of the wilted spinach will elevate the dish visually, promising nourishment alongside delightful flavors. Step 4: Flake the Smoked Salmon Now, gently fold in 4 ounces of smoky, flaky smoked salmon, allowing it to warm through in the residual heat of the pasta. Break the salmon into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing, aiming for an even distribution throughout the dish. This step will introduce a rich, savory backdrop that defines Smoked Salmon Spaghetti, enhancing every bite. Step 5: Plate and Garnish To serve, divide the Smoked Salmon Spaghetti among four plates, ensuring an even distribution of pasta and salmon. Top each serving with a sprinkle of cracked pepper, a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a scattering of capers for a briny touch. Finally, add a few sprigs of fresh dill to garnish, giving your dish a beautiful presentation. Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Variations Feel free to play with this recipe to match your taste and dietary needs—each variation adds a unique twist! Creamy Vegan Option: Instead of light cream, use cashew cream for a rich vegan sauce that still delivers on flavor. Pesto Twist: For a non-creamy alternative, try a basil and cashew pesto sauce that adds a vibrant, nutty flavor. Extra Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of sweetness and color in your pasta dish. Whole Grain Delight: Opt for whole-grain spaghetti to increase fiber and nutrients while maintaining that comforting pasta feel. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce warmth and heat into the dish. Different Greens: Swap spinach for arugula or kale—each offers a different texture and taste to complement the salmon beautifully. Umami Boost: Incorporate a dash of soy sauce or tamari for an extra layer of umami flavor. Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds make for a delightful crunchy topping, bringing in a nutty finish to your dish. These tweaks transform your Smoked Salmon Spaghetti into a personalized experience, perfect for impressing family or friends! How to Store and Freeze Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This delicious Smoked Salmon Spaghetti retains its flavors well when properly stored. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to revive the creamy consistency, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, but be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Thawing: To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stovetop. Add a bit of cream or pasta water to bring the flavors back to life. Expert Tips for Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking the spaghetti; aim for al dente so it holds up better in the creamy sauce. Warm the Salmon: Gently warm the smoked salmon with the residual heat from the pasta, enhancing its flavor without cooking it further. Perfect Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add extra reserved pasta water until achieving the desired creaminess. Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor; nutritional yeast is a great non-dairy alternative. Spinach Substitutes: If spinach isn’t available, kale or arugula make excellent substitutes while adding a different flavor profile. What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Looking to create a memorable meal around your delectable smoked salmon spaghetti? Let’s explore delightful pairings that enhance both flavor and experience. Light Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with peppery arugula and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the spaghetti. It adds a refreshing crunch that cuts through the creaminess. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread becomes a comforting side that soaks up the creamy sauce, providing a satisfying, buttery touch with every bite. Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, balancing the flavors with a refreshing acidity. Roasted Asparagus: The slightly charred and tender asparagus adds a nutritional boost and brings a delightful texture, perfect for rounding out the plate. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter touch, serve zoodles alongside to add color and fiber, maintaining a feeling of indulgence without the heaviness. Lemon Sorbet: Finish the meal with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate, leaving a refreshing note that ties back to the dish’s bright flavors. Make Ahead Options These Smoked Salmon Spaghetti with Creamy Spinach Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the spaghetti up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain freshness. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to revive its creamy consistency. Cooked spaghetti can be stored in the refrigerator as well, ensuring they’re both ready-to-use for a quick dinner. When finishing the dish, combine the warm spaghetti with the heated sauce and fold in the flaked smoked salmon for a delightful meal that feels freshly made, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! Smoked Salmon Spaghetti Recipe FAQs How do I select the best smoked salmon? Absolutely! When choosing smoked salmon, look for wild-caught varieties when possible; they tend to have a fuller flavor and better texture. Check the packaging for signs of freshness, and avoid any that appear dry or have dark spots all over the flesh. How should I store leftover Smoked Salmon Spaghetti? This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stovetop, and adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Can I freeze Smoked Salmon Spaghetti? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. To do this, portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers. However, be aware that the texture might change slightly when thawed. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stovetop. Add a bit of cream or pasta water to bring the flavors back to life. What if my sauce is too thick? If your creamy sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Gradually add your reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, while mixing continuously until you reach the desired creamy texture. This will enhance the sauce without compromising the flavor. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice, feel free to swap in any favorite pasta type, such as linguine, fettuccine, or even whole-grain pasta for added nutrition. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta you select, so keep an eye on it! Are there dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! If you’re serving this dish to someone with dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that smoked salmon is generally safe for most people, but always check for allergies. For non-dairy alternatives, use non-dairy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to accommodate lactose intolerance. Enjoy your culinary journey with Smoked Salmon Spaghetti! Creamy Smoked Salmon Spaghetti for Effortless Elegance Impress with this creamy smoked salmon spaghetti dish, combining rich flavors and healthy ingredients for a delightful dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Spaghetti8 ounces Spaghetti Feel free to swap in any pasta you love!For the Creamy Sauce1 cup Light Cream Substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy cream if preferred.1 cup Reserved Pasta Water Essential for the right creamy texture.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best texture.For the Flavor4 ounces Smoked Salmon Look for wild-caught varieties.2 tablespoons Capers Olives can be a suitable substitution.1 tablespoon Dill Feel free to replace with parsley or basil.to taste Cracked Pepper Use freshly cracked for added kick.For the Green Touch2 cups Spinach Leaves Swap in kale or arugula for variety. Equipment large potMedium PanColander Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBoil a large pot of salted water and cook 8 ounces of spaghetti according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.In a medium pan over low heat, return the drained spaghetti to the pot and add reserved pasta water and 1 cup of light cream. Stir gently and heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.Toss in 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves into the creamy pasta. Stir for 1-2 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and blend.Gently fold in 4 ounces of flaked smoked salmon, warming it through in the residual heat.Divide the spaghetti among four plates and top with cracked pepper, grated Parmesan, capers, and dill for garnish. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with reserved pasta water or cream. 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