Quick Salmon & Spinach Pasta
A quick and healthy meal that combines tender salmon fillets with fresh spinach and pasta in a creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 fillets salmon (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream or lighter alternative
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
Cooking Salmon
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and flake into bite-sized pieces once it has cooled slightly.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes start to soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and lemon zest, stirring to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce simmers, gently fold in the flaked salmon and cooked pasta. Toss everything together to combine, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of salmon and vegetables.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped dill or parsley on top. Optionally, add toasted pine nuts or walnuts and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with a wedge of lemon.
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Notes
For optimal flavor, use fresh ingredients. Monitor cooking times to ensure everything is ready simultaneously. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.