This Smoked Salmon Carbonara is a twist on a classic dish! With creamy sauce, pasta, and delicious smoked salmon, it’s super easy to whip up.
I love how this meal feels fancy but takes only minutes to make! Pair it with a salad, and you have a quick dinner that impresses without the stress! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti or Linguine: I often use spaghetti for its classic feel, but linguine works great too. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta; it cooks up nicely in this recipe.
Smoked Salmon: This is the star of the dish! If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, canned salmon or cooked chicken can work as options, keeping in mind this will change the flavor profile.
Eggs: They provide the creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use only egg whites or even a store-bought egg substitute if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is superb for flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano will add a nice zing, or for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a burst of freshness. If you don’t have parsley, you could use basil or chives for a different twist.
How Do You Create a Creamy Sauce Without Scrambling the Eggs?
This step can be tricky! The key is to keep the skillet off the heat when you add the egg mixture to prevent it from cooking too quickly. Try these tips:
- Whisk the egg and cheese mixture thoroughly before adding to the warm pasta.
- Remove the skillet from the heat before pouring in the eggs, and toss the pasta quickly while they combine.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust creaminess—add a little at a time until you reach the desired texture.
With practice, you’ll nail that creamy, smooth sauce every time! Enjoy crafting your Smoked Salmon Carbonara! 🍽️
Delicious Smoked Salmon Carbonara Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Carbonara Sauce:
- 6 oz (170g) smoked salmon, cut into pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delightful meal in just under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later!
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth mixture. Set this aside for later; it’ll add creaminess to the dish.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Make sure not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Add the Smoked Salmon:
Add the pieces of smoked salmon to the skillet and gently heat them through for about 1-2 minutes. You’re just warming them up and letting that smoky flavor infuse into the dish.
5. Combine Pasta and Salmon:
Now, it’s time to add the drained pasta to the skillet with the salmon. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is coated in those lovely flavors.
6. Mix in the Egg and Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Slowly pour your egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to ensure it coats the noodles without scrambling the eggs. If it’s looking dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the creamy texture you want.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor! Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and a good amount of freshly ground black pepper.
8. Serve It Up:
Your Smoked Salmon Carbonara is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a beautiful presentation.
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine are classic choices, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even whole grain pasta. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions!
Can I Replace the Smoked Salmon?
Yes! If smoked salmon isn’t your thing, you can substitute with cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a mix of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just adjust seasoning to complement the new protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring back moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and use a non-dairy milk alternative mixed with a vegan cream cheese to achieve a creamy texture. Just be mindful of the consistency while cooking!
