Creamy Smoked Salmon Pasta

This elegant yet simple pasta dish combines the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with a velvety cream cheese sauce, brightened by fresh lemon zest and briny capers. The dish is inspired by classic Italian pasta recipes but infused with a modern twist, making it perfect for a quick yet gourmet meal. The balance of creamy, tangy, and savory elements ensures every bite is satisfying, while fresh parsley adds a touch of vibrancy. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated gathering, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for effortless indulgence.

Ingredients (Makes 4 portions)

300 g / 10.5 oz penne rigate
200 g / 7 oz smoked salmon
150 g / 5.2 oz Philadelphia cream cheese
1 lemon, zest and juice
¼ brown onion, finely chopped
A small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp capers
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
3-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Nutrition Information (per 100g)

Calories: 220
Fat: 9
Protein: 12
Carbohydrates: 25
Fiber: 2

Directions

Preparing the Sauce

1. Heat a large pan over medium-low heat and add 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, stirring frequently. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water and continue cooking.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and mix well.

Cooking the Pasta

4. Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and stir to dissolve.
5. Add the penne rigate and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Building the Flavor

6. While the pasta is cooking, zest the lemon directly over the pan, adding as much as desired.
7. Squeeze the lemon juice through a small sieve to catch the seeds, then pour it into the pan and mix through.
8. Add the capers and season with a small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Combining the Ingredients

9. Once the pasta is nearly ready, reserve a mug of pasta water and set it aside.
10. Drain the pasta and transfer it directly to the pan with the sauce.
11. Add a splash of reserved pasta water and toss the pasta to coat. If the mixture looks dry, add more pasta water gradually.

Finishing Touches

12. Stir in the Philadelphia cream cheese, mixing thoroughly until it melts into the sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
13. Turn off the heat and gently stir in half of the smoked salmon, reserving the other half for garnish.
14. Give the pasta a final toss, adding more pasta water if needed, then serve topped with the remaining smoked salmon.

Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.

Alternative Proteins

Replace smoked salmon with grilled shrimp or canned tuna for a different seafood twist.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Complementary Flavor Pairings

Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for extra freshness.

Cooking Tips

Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of lemon zest to your preference for a brighter or milder citrus note.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add more pasta water gradually to loosen it.

Healthier Variations

Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter version.

Seasonal Tweaks

In summer, garnish with fresh dill or chives for a bright herbal touch.

Ask Cookix, your sous-chef