Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta is a cozy yet elegant meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Flaky salmon and tender spinach are enveloped in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, then tossed with al dente pasta for a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or just want something comforting and nourishing, this pasta delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Creamy sauce perfectly complements flaky salmon.
Spinach adds freshness and nutrients.
Fast and easy—perfect for weeknight meals.
Rich, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors.
A great way to incorporate seafood into your routine.
Ingredients for Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Every great recipe starts with the perfect ingredient mix—here’s yours.
Fettuccine pasta: This wide noodle holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but you can swap it for any pasta you prefer.
Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the overall flavor.
Fresh spinach: This leafy green not only adds color but also packs a nutritional punch.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness balances the creaminess, creating a delightful contrast.
Cooked salmon: Flaked salmon is the star of the show, providing protein and a savory taste.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter option, consider half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients can make or break your dish.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshness to each bite.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’ll help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your dish!
Step 3: Add Spinach and Tomatoes
Next, add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them around for about 2-3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften, releasing their sweet juices. The colors will brighten up your skillet, making it look as good as it tastes!
Step 4: Incorporate Salmon
Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the flaked salmon. Gently stir it into the skillet and let it heat through for another 2 minutes. The salmon will soak up the flavors from the garlic, spinach, and tomatoes, creating a delightful medley.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and add a splash of lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly, becoming rich and creamy. If it looks too thick, don’t worry; you can adjust it later with the reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in that luscious creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy but not soupy!
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty flavor. Serve your Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
Always reserve pasta water; it’s a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
Don’t overcook the spinach; it should be wilted but still vibrant.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; frozen salmon can work in a pinch.
Experiment with herbs like basil or dill for added depth.
For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta; a deep skillet can work too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing and simmering.
Colander: To drain the pasta; a slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions; eyeballing can work in a pinch.
Variations of Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Swap the Protein: Try using shrimp or chicken instead of salmon for a different flavor profile.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
Make it Spicy: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, basil, or thyme to elevate the flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute salmon with chickpeas and use coconut cream for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Wine: Enjoy with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta
Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned salmon is a convenient option. Just drain it well and flake it before adding it to the skillet. It’s a great time-saver!
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version of Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also reduce the amount of cheese.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have fettuccine?
No worries! You can use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The rich, creamy sauce envelops the pasta, while the salmon and spinach bring a burst of flavor and color to your plate. Each bite is a reminder that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring salmon and spinach, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces cooked salmon, flaked
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened.
Stir in the flaked salmon and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt, pepper, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
