Salmon pasta with spinach and tomatoes is a perfect combination of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. The creamy sauce, paired with tender pieces of salmon, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, creates a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients. This recipe is great for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 300g pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works well)
- 200g fresh spinach
- 12 small tomatoes, halved (cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal)
- 300ml cream
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 250g salmon fillet, cut into pieces (skin removed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of water seasoned with salt.
- Add the pasta and cook as directed on the package until it reaches an al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sear the Salmon:
- Season the salmon pieces with salt and pepper.
- Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a spacious skillet set over medium heat.
- Add the salmon pieces to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and just cooked through.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, pour in an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
- Toss in the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute, or until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the halved tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
- If using, pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the sauce reduces slightly.
4. Add the Spinach and Cream:
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the cream, stir, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
- Gently return the cooked salmon pieces to the pan, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and salmon are coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the creamy salmon pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
- For a zesty touch, serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Conclusion:
This salmon pasta with spinach and tomatoes is a wonderful balance of creamy richness, fresh vegetables, and tender salmon. The light yet flavorful sauce, paired with the hearty pasta, makes it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, and the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy this quick and satisfying recipe with your favorite glass of wine or a simple side salad!