Pasta/Pizza - Pasta with smoked salmon by Roxana E. - Recipia
Smoked Salmon Pasta: a quick, tasty, and aromatic recipe

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

If you're looking for a simple recipe that makes a significant impact on flavor, then smoked salmon pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines the velvety texture of the cream with salty, juicy salmon, resulting in a meal that is quick to prepare but will impress any guest! Whether you serve it for a romantic dinner or just for lunch, smoked salmon pasta is an excellent choice. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 250 g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne – the choice is yours)
- 150 g smoked salmon (choose a high-quality salmon with a rich flavor)
- 200 ml cream (opt for a thick cream to achieve a creamy texture)
- 100 g cream cheese (like Philadelphia or similar)
- 1 small onion (a white or yellow onion will add sweetness)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin oil is ideal for flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for a touch of freshness and color)

Step by step:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is crucial: al dente pasta is firmer and has a more pleasant texture.

2. Preparing the sauce: While the pasta is boiling, start preparing the sauce. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently until the onion becomes translucent and slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. This will add a delicate and sweet flavor to your sauce.

3. Adding the salmon: Cut the smoked salmon into strips or cubes, depending on your preference. Once the onion is ready, add the salmon to the skillet. Let it heat for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to overcook it, as smoked salmon does not require cooking. The goal is to warm it up and integrate it into the sauce.

4. Creating the creamy sauce: Add the cream cheese and cream over the salmon and onion in the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients, forming a creamy sauce. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of the pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Finishing the dish: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet, gently mixing to combine the pasta with the sauce. Let it heat together for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, as well as the fresh chopped parsley.

6. Serving: Serve the pasta immediately, sprinkled with freshly ground pepper on top. A creative idea would be to add a few slices of lemon for an extra touch of freshness. This smoked salmon pasta pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a simple green salad.

Useful tips:
- Pasta varieties: You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but remember that the shape of the pasta can influence how the sauce clings to it. Shorter pasta, like penne, may hold the sauce better.
- Smoked salmon: Use high-quality salmon for a richer taste. If you enjoy a more intense flavor, you can try smoked salmon with wood flavors.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to enrich the recipe. These can be added to the skillet along with the onion.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe is relatively high in calories, with approximately 600-700 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Smoked salmon provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart and brain health, while cream and cream cheese contribute a good amount of calcium and protein.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the cream with a lighter product?
- Yes, you can use light cream or Greek yogurt, but the taste will be different.

2. What type of parsley should I use?
- Flat-leaf parsley offers a more intense flavor, but curly parsley is also delicious.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
- It’s better to prepare it fresh, as the pasta can become sticky if kept too long with the sauce.

Regardless of the occasion, smoked salmon pasta is an excellent choice that will bring joy and satisfaction with every bite. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste! Enjoy your meal!
Pasta/Pizza - Pasta with smoked salmon by Roxana E. - Recipia

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