Tagliatelle with Smoked Salmon

This dish combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the creamy texture of cream-infused pasta, making it a comforting and elegant meal. The tagliatelle serves as the perfect companion to the delicate smoked salmon and buttery sauce, coming together to create a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. It's a meal that's quick enough for a weekday dinner yet sophisticated enough to impress guests at a special occasion. The subtle seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors without overwhelming them. Simple yet refined, this dish brings together an Italian touch with a hint of oceanic freshness. With minimal ingredients required, it's an effortless way to enjoy a gourmet experience at home. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or a romantic dinner for two, tagliatelle with smoked salmon is sure to become a favorite staple. Read on for detailed steps to recreate this delicious dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 300 g tagliatelle pasta
• 150 g smoked salmon
• 250 g cream
• 30 g butter

Spices and Seasonings

• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• 30 minutes for both preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the tagliatelle according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salmon: While the pasta is cooking, dice the smoked salmon into small cubes for even cooking.
3. Melt the Butter: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter, ensuring it doesn't brown.
4. Cook the Salmon: Add the diced salmon to the pan, stirring gently, and cook until the salmon is slightly crispy on the edges, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the tagliatelle while reserving a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
6. Combine Pasta and Salmon: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the smoked salmon, stirring to coat the pasta with butter.
7. Add the Cream: Pour the cream over the pasta-salmon mixture and stir to combine.
8. Simmer the Sauce: Let the cream simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
9. Season: Add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of pepper to taste, being careful not to over-season since smoked salmon is already salty.
10. Stir and Taste: Mix well, tasting the sauce to ensure the seasoning is balanced before serving.
11. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
12. Warm Through: Let the entire mixture heat through for another 2 minutes, ensuring flavors meld together beautifully.
13. Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
14. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with finely chopped fresh dill or parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor.
15. Enjoy: Invite others to the table and enjoy your homemade gourmet meal.
16. Clean Up: Don’t forget to switch off the stove and tidy up, if desired.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can substitute tagliatelle with fettuccine or linguine if preferred.
• Enhancements: For a zestier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
• Cream Choices: Use heavy cream for a richer sauce or substitute with a lighter version for fewer calories.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
• Protein: 22 g
• Fats: 45 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute smoked salmon with smoked tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Consider serving this dish with a side of mixed greens or steamed asparagus.
• A glass of chilled white wine pairs excellently, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Best Places

1. La Trattoria Da Paolo - A charming spot known for its authentic Italian pasta. Location: 23 Via Roma, Naples, Italy.

2. The Balthazar - Offers a fabulous smoked salmon pasta. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.

3. Café de Paris - French-inspired bistro with a great pasta menu. Location: 12 Rue de l'Université, Paris, France.

4. Salmon & Co. - Specializes in seafood and salmon dishes. Location: 14 High St, Edinburgh, Scotland.

5. Ristorante Mare Blu - Offers coastal dishes with fresh ingredients. Location: 45 Dubrovacka cesta, Dubrovnik, Croatia.

6. Pasta Fresca - Handmade pasta served fresh daily. Location: Via del Corso, Rome, Italy.

7. The Blue Clam - Coastal vibe with a focus on fresh seafood pasta. Location: 34 Main St, Sydney, Australia.

8. Nordic Bites - Scandinavian take on pasta and salmon. Location: 56 Norr Mälarstrand, Stockholm, Sweden.

9. Casa di Giuseppe - Cozy place with a wide range of pasta options. Location: 7 Rua do Almada, Lisbon, Portugal.

10. Fish & Pasta - Known for their fusion of flavors, blending sea and land perfectly. Location: 11 Ocean Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.