Healthier Smoked Salmon Linguine Recipe

Introduction

This Healthier Smoked Salmon Linguine is a delightful twist on a classic creamy pasta dish. Packed with smoky flavors and a light garlic cream sauce, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 6-8 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 lb smoked salmon
• 3-4 tbsp pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
• 2 tbsp capers, drained

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Step 3: Add the lemon juice and 3-4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to the cream. Allow the mixture to boil again until it thickens slightly. Stir in salt to taste, then remove from heat.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked linguine to the cream sauce and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Step 5: Break the smoked salmon into smaller pieces using a fork. Add the salmon and drained capers to the pasta and toss to combine well.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve the creamy smoked salmon linguine hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use Kerrygold salted butter for rich flavor, or substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauté for a subtle spicy kick.
• Fresh dill can be used instead of parsley to complement the smoked salmon.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work well with this creamy sauce and smoked salmon.

Is smoked salmon necessary for this recipe?

Smoked salmon provides a distinctive flavor, but you can substitute it with cooked salmon or cooked shrimp for a different twist.

Healthier Smoked Salmon Linguine Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 601 reviews

This Healthier Smoked Salmon Linguine is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a garlic-infused cream sauce with fresh lemon juice, smoked salmon, and briny capers. The dish is elevated with parsley garnish and offers a balanced yet indulgent meal perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting but lighter pasta option.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb linguine

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp salted butter (preferably Kerrygold)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 6–8 garlic cloves, finely chopped

For the Final Dish:

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 lb smoked salmon
• 3–4 tbsp reserved pasta water
• 2 tbsp capers, drained

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Add the lemon juice and 3-4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to the boiling cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil again until it thickens slightly. Stir in salt to taste, then remove from heat.
4. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the cream sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
5. Add Smoked Salmon and Capers: Use a fork to break the smoked salmon into smaller pieces. Add the salmon and drained capers to the pasta in the saucepan and toss to combine well.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the creamy smoked salmon linguine with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
• Reserve enough pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
• Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
• If preferred, add freshly cracked black pepper for extra seasoning.
• This dish pairs well with a light green salad and a crisp white wine.

Keywords: smoked salmon linguine, garlic cream sauce, pasta with salmon, easy seafood pasta, lemon cream pasta