Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is a classic for good reason. The combination of rich cream, delicate salmon, and fresh greens creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It comes together in under an hour, making it a great choice for weeknights when you want something special without too much effort. The capers and lemon zest cut through the richness, giving each bite the perfect burst of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Nonstick cooking spray

• 2 salmon fillets (about 3/4 pound total, or 1 large fillet)

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more for pasta water

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided

• 12 ounces linguine

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

• 1 box (5 ounces) baby spinach

• 2 tablespoons capers

• Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a small rimmed baking pan with cooking spray. Place salmon skin-side down on the pan, season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and bake 14–16 minutes, or until salmon reaches 145°F and is just opaque.

2. While salmon bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.

3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in cream, wine, lemon zest, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook 5–6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Reduce heat to low. Add spinach and capers. Drain pasta and add it directly to the skillet, tossing until spinach just wilts.

5. Remove salmon from the oven. Slide a spatula between the skin and flesh to remove the skin, then break salmon into large chunks over the pasta. Toss gently to combine.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Replace linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

• Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.

• Swap white wine with chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

• Use smoked salmon for a richer, bolder flavor.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the salmon and separate the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without wine?

Yes, substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for the white wine.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin before cooking?

No, leave the skin on while roasting to keep the fish moist. It’s easy to remove after baking.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Linguine is traditional here, but fettuccine or spaghetti work equally well.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, Parmesan cheese can be stirred into the sauce for extra richness.

How do I keep the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat moderate and avoid rapid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and salmon in advance, then cook pasta and assemble before serving.

Is there a lighter version of this dish?

Yes, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in Greek yogurt for some of the cream.

Can I use canned salmon?

It’s not ideal, but in a pinch you can. Be sure to drain it well and add it at the end.

What can I serve with creamy salmon pasta?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with this dish.

Conclusion

The Best Creamy Salmon Pasta is a comforting, elegant recipe that never fails to impress. With tender salmon, creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach, it’s a balanced dish that feels luxurious yet simple enough for any cook to master. Whether for a cozy date night or a family dinner, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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