A rich and elegant pasta dish featuring tender flakes of seared salmon, fresh spinach, and silky tagliatelle coated in a garlic cream sauce—perfect for a cozy yet refined dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is the perfect blend of indulgence and freshness. The creamy sauce provides comfort, while lemon zest and juice brighten the flavors. Salmon adds protein and richness, and spinach delivers a boost of freshness and nutrition. It is easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining, making it a versatile recipe to keep in your collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz tagliatelle or pappardelle pasta
• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp capers (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook tagliatelle according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Meanwhile, season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until just cooked through. Set aside and flake into large chunks.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in cream and stir in Parmesan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add spinach and stir until wilted. Toss in the cooked pasta and loosen with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Gently fold in flaked salmon, lemon zest, lemon juice, and capers (if using).
6. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Replace salmon with shrimp for a lighter seafood option.
• Swap spinach with arugula or kale for a different green.
• Use crème fraîche instead of heavy cream for a slightly tangier sauce.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra depth of flavor.
• Make it spicier with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream, milk, or pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can dry out the salmon and make the sauce separate. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as fish and cream sauces do not freeze well.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked salmon?

Yes, this recipe works beautifully with leftover baked, grilled, or poached salmon. Simply flake it and fold it into the pasta at the end.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Tagliatelle or pappardelle are ideal due to their wide ribbons, which hold the creamy sauce well, but fettuccine also works.

Can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for cream, though the sauce will be less rich.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy salmon pasta.

Can I bake this dish as a pasta casserole?

Yes, transfer the finished pasta into a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden.

How can I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat at medium and avoid boiling the cream. Stir continuously for a smooth, silky sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, peas, or asparagus would be excellent additions to this dish.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Creamy salmon and spinach tagliatelle is a luxurious yet approachable pasta dish that brings together tender salmon, vibrant greens, and a luscious sauce. With its balanced flavors and elegant presentation, it is perfect for a date night, dinner party, or simply an elevated weeknight meal. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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