I’ve always loved meals that feel indulgent yet come together in no time, and this Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta is my ultimate go-to for busy weeknights. The first time I tried making it, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could transform into a restaurant-quality dish right in my own kitchen. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with tender chunks of salmon and fresh spinach, makes every bite a comforting delight. Since then, it has become a staple in my recipe rotation, perfect for when I want something special without spending hours cooking.
You will love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and ease. The creamy sauce feels luxurious, yet the preparation is straightforward, making it approachable even for beginner cooks. Plus, the combination of flavors is always a hit—delicate salmon, savory garlic, and earthy spinach mingle with the pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can swap the salmon for other types of fish, add your favorite vegetables, or even use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences. It’s a flexible dish that adapts to your pantry and taste, making it ideal for meal planning or unexpected dinner guests.
This dish is also budget-friendly. While it tastes like something from a high-end restaurant, it uses accessible ingredients that won’t break the bank. A few pantry staples, fresh salmon, and a handful of spinach are all you need to create an impressive, hearty meal.
Ingredients for Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta:
-
250g pasta of your choice
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
200g fresh spinach, roughly chopped
-
250g salmon fillet, cut into chunks
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
Optional: chili flakes or herbs for extra flavor
How to Prepare Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta
Preparing this Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta is straightforward, and it only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. The key is to work efficiently while keeping the salmon tender and the sauce creamy. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce consistency if needed. -
Prepare the salmon
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon chunks with salt and pepper. Add the salmon to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside, leaving any juices in the pan. -
Sauté the garlic and spinach
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted, stirring frequently to combine with the garlic and salmon juices for extra flavor. -
Make the creamy sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any bits from the skillet for added flavor. Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. For extra tang, add the lemon juice and stir well. -
Combine pasta, salmon, and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Then, fold in the cooked salmon carefully to avoid breaking the pieces. -
Customize and serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes if you like a subtle heat. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs on top for added flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Quick and Easy Tips:
-
Pre-cut ingredients: Using pre-washed spinach and pre-cut garlic saves time.
-
One-pan option: Cook the salmon and sauce in the same skillet to reduce cleanup.
-
Cream alternatives: If you prefer, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
This recipe is highly customizable and popular with everyone who tries it. You can add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor. Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture combined with tender salmon and pasta, making it a family favorite.
With this method, you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights or when you want a comforting, indulgent meal that impresses without stress.
PrintCreamy Salmon Spinach Pasta – Restaurant-Worthy in 25 Minutes!
This Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta is a restaurant-worthy dish you can make in just 25 minutes. Tender salmon, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce come together to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, this pasta is versatile, quick, and highly satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 1x
Ingredients
- 250g pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200g fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 250g salmon fillet, cut into chunks
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: chili flakes or fresh herbs for extra flavor
Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Stir occasionally. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. - Cook the salmon
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until just done. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Sauté garlic and spinach
Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted, stirring frequently. - Make the creamy sauce
Lower heat. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Gradually add Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Add lemon juice and stir. - Combine pasta and salmon
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Fold in cooked salmon gently. - Customize and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes.
Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Work quickly to keep salmon tender and spinach fresh.
FAQs – Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta
1. Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen salmon works perfectly. Just thaw it completely before cooking, pat it dry, and follow the same steps. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.
2. What type of pasta works best?
This recipe is versatile and works well with spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even whole-grain pasta. Choose your favorite shape—the sauce clings beautifully to each type.
3. How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Additionally, using less Parmesan or a lighter cheese can reduce calories while keeping the flavor rich.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance. Chop the spinach, mince the garlic, and cut the salmon earlier. However, it’s best to cook and combine everything right before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
6. Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended because the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture.
7. Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini work well. Sauté them with the garlic and spinach to maintain a balanced flavor.
8. Can I make it spicy?
Yes, adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce gives it a subtle kick without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.