Lemon Infused Salmon Spinach (Printable Version)
Salmon, spinach, and lemon zest combine in a creamy Parmesan pasta perfect for bright, satisfying meals.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta and Sauce
01 -
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
05 -
1 cup heavy cream
06 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 -
1 teaspoon lemon zest
08 -
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 -
Salt, to taste
10 -
Black pepper, to taste
11 -
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Fish and Garnish
12 -
1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
13 -
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Toss the drained pasta with a small amount of olive oil.
02 -
Season the salmon fillet with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Place the salmon in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until just cooked through. Remove from pan, allow to rest briefly, then flake into bite-sized pieces.
03 -
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Add chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until wilted.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, pour in heavy cream, and stir to combine. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully melted and the sauce thickens.
05 -
Stir in lemon zest, remaining lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
06 -
Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce. Fold in flaked salmon, taking care to keep larger chunks intact for texture.
07 -
To adjust sauce consistency, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time as needed. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Reserve pasta cooking water to help achieve the desired creaminess in the final sauce.
02 -
For optimal salmon texture, avoid overcooking and flake while still slightly warm.