Creamy Smoked Salmon Pasta

This delightful creamy smoked salmon pasta is a comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends. It combines al dente spaghettini with the rich flavors of smoked salmon, fresh parsley, and a creamy sauce made with sour cream and cheese. The dish comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal without compromising on taste. The freshness of the parsley and the slightly salty kick of Parmesan create a beautiful harmony with the smoky salmon. Not only is it satisfying, but it's also visually appealing with vibrant greens and golden tones. The creamy sauce gently coats the pasta, balancing the smokiness of the salmon perfectly. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to impress their guests with minimal effort yet maximum flavor. Discover how a few simple ingredients can create a gourmet experience in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 package of flat spaghettini
• 300-400 g smoked salmon, cold variety
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley
• 2-3 bouillon cubes
• 3-4 tablespoons of 25% sour cream
• 1 package (40 g) of grated hard cheese (such as Rapitalia, Parmesan, or similar)
• Salt to taste

Spices and Sauces

• Salt or Vegeta seasoning to taste

Preparation Time

Total preparation and cooking time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of water for the spaghettini. Cook the pasta according to package instructions for al dente texture.
2. Prepare the Broth: While the pasta is cooking, take a large pan with high sides. Pour in 1-1.5 liters of water and add the bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil.
3. Add Parsley: Finely chop the parsley and add it to the boiling broth. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the sour cream, mixing until it's fully incorporated into the broth.
5. Add Cheese: Gradually add the grated hard cheese to the pan, stirring continuously until it's melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and add salt or Vegeta to your preference.
7. Incorporate Salmon: Cut the smoked salmon into thin slices or cubes and add them to the sauce. Allow the salmon to warm through but avoid cooking it for too long.
8. Drain and Toss: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and reserve a little pasta water. Mix a bit of butter through the pasta if desired.
9. Combine the Components: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure each strand is coated.
10. Finish and Serve: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topped with extra parsley if desired. Allow guests to add any additional cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips

• Cheese Options: Feel free to substitute the cheese with your favorite type that melts well, like Gruyère or a sharp Cheddar.
• Butter Additions: For a richer taste, adding a pat of butter to the drained pasta can enhance its texture.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like dill or chives for a fresh twist.

Nutritions

• Calories: ~500 per serving
• Protein: ~25g
• Fats: ~20g
• Carbs: ~55g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Fat: Use a lower-fat sour cream and reduce cheese quantities if desired.
• Add Veggies: Add spinach or peas for additional nutritional value and color.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread.
• Wine: A light, citrusy white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.

Best Places

• The Smokehouse - Renowned for its exquisite variety of smoked salmon dishes. Location: 123 Salmon St, Oslo, Norway.
• Pasta Paradiso - Offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta with fresh ingredients. Location: 45 Naples Ave, Rome, Italy.
• Ocean's Delight - Highly praised for its use of fresh, locally-sourced seafood. Location: 67 Fishermen's Wharf, Sydney, Australia.
• La Mer - Known for its elegant presentations and delicious seafood pastas. Location: 89 Côte d'Azur Blvd, Nice, France.
• Northern Catch - A cozy spot famous for its hearty salmon offerings. Location: 21 Winter Way, Reykjavik, Iceland.
• The Fishery - Combines modern cooking with classic flavors in its seafood dishes. Location: 78 Pier Rd, Vancouver, Canada.
• Casa di Mare - Draws a loyal crowd with its diverse seafood pasta menu. Location: 32 Marina Bay, Valetta, Malta.
• Salmon House - Offers stunning views and mouth-watering salmon courses. Location: 99 Water St, Juneau, USA.
• Blue Wave - Celebrated for its innovative seafood creations. Location: 54 Ocean Dr, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Gulf Catchers - Delights with its warm ambiance and flavorful seafood pastas. Location: 30 Coastline Rd, Lisbon, Portugal.