Smoked salmon spaghetti

Smoked Salmon Spaghetti features al dente pasta tossed with smoky salmon, zesty lemon, and fresh arugula, resulting in a light yet satisfying dish. It's quick to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

23 Nov 2025
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp capers
5 cups arugula
8 oz salmon

This Smoked Salmon Spaghetti recipe is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal. Combining the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with the brightness of lemon and the peppery bite of arugula, this pasta is both flavorful and nutritious.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

2. Prepare the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the lemon zest to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon zest. Toss to coat the pasta with the oil and zest.
- Add the lemon juice and capers to the pasta. Toss thoroughly to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Add Arugula and Smoked Salmon:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the arugula until it wilts slightly from the heat of the pasta.
- Gently fold in the smoked salmon pieces, ensuring they are distributed evenly.

5. Season and Serve:
- Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl.

6. Garnish:
- Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish with a side of your choice, such as a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

To sum it up, Smoked Salmon Spaghetti is a delightful and sophisticated dish that can be whipped up in no time. The blend of smoky salmon, tangy lemon, and fresh arugula makes for a balanced and scrumptious meal that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your family.

Smoked salmon spaghetti FAQ:

What size pan should I use for cooking the pasta?

Use a large pot to cook the pasta, ensuring there's plenty of water for the pasta to move freely and cook evenly. This helps to prevent sticking.

How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

The pasta is al dente when it is tender but still has a slight firmness to the bite. Check the package instructions for specific cooking times, and taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up.

Can I store leftovers of this smoked salmon spaghetti?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

What can I substitute for arugula if I don't have it?

You can substitute arugula with baby spinach or other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Note that the flavor profile may change slightly, as arugula has a peppery taste.

What type of smoked salmon is best for this recipe?

Look for high-quality, wild-caught smoked salmon for the best flavor. Both cold-smoked and hot-smoked varieties can work, but cold-smoked offers a more delicate texture.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure to cook the pasta al dente as it will be tossed again with the ingredients.

- Rinse the capers to remove excess salt and brine, which can overpower the dish.

- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.

- Allow the arugula to gently wilt by tossing it with the hot pasta and dressing.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of crème fraîche or heavy cream while tossing the pasta.

- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 63g
Fiber 3.41g
Sugar 3.23g
Fat 11g

Smoked salmon spaghetti