Ever had pasta so creamy and delicious it makes you want to dance?
Clearly, you’re in for a treat with Smoked Salmon Carbonara! This recipe wraps smoky, luscious flavors into every twirl of spaghetti, and the best part? It’s an easy one-pan wonder that’s sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and only a few minutes to whip up, it’s become a top contender for your weeknight dinner rotation.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you put on your chef hat for this dish? Let’s break it down:
- Super Easy Cleanup: One skillet? Yes, please! Less time washing up means more time enjoying your delicious meal (or binge-watching your favorite show).
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of smoked salmon, creamy sauce, and garlic makes your taste buds sing. Who knew fancy could be so simple?
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love pasta — sprinkle a little chive magic on top, and you’ve got a winner.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 large egg yolks
- 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 100g smoked salmon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Directions
Ready to cook up a storm? Here’s how to make it:
- Cook the pasta: Boil the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping a little pasta water for later.
- Whisk: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant — about 1 minute.
- Add the pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the garlic, letting it mingle for a moment.
- Create the sauce: Immediately pour the egg yolk and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to make that luscious, creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Fold in the salmon: Gently fold in the smoked salmon, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot: Dish out your masterpiece, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives!
How to Make Smoked Salmon Carbonara (Overview)
This dish isn’t just delightful — it’s also a breeze to make! First, cook your pasta to that perfect al dente stage. While it bubbles away, whisk those egg yolks with Parmesan until they practically scream "delicious!"
In the skillet, garlic and olive oil create that aromatic hug. Pull everything together by adding the pasta, then quickly toss in your creamy egg mix for smooth goodness. Fold in the smoked salmon, and voilà! You’ve got a dish that’s creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-ready to impress. Pro tip: Keep the heat low during the sauce-making step to avoid scrambling those eggs.
How to Serve Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Make your presentation pop! Serve the carbonara in shallow bowls for that cafe-style feel. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish. Pair it with a light side salad for some freshness, and maybe a crisp, chilled white wine to elevate the flavors even more.
Just imagine: vibrant greens, rich hues of the pasta, and a hint of fresh herbs wafting through the air. Gorgeous, right?
How to Store Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water to breathe life back into that creamy sauce.
Pro tip: Avoid freezing it, as dairy-based sauces can get a bit funky after thawing!
Tips to Make Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Here are a few quick insider tricks:
- Don’t skip the garlic toasting — it’s the secret to elevating your dish.
- Use high-quality Parmesan — trust me, it makes the sauce extra velvety.
- Add a pinch of lemon zest for a bright twist. It’s like sunshine on a plate!
- Swap smoked salmon for cooked shrimp if you want a different seafood flair.
- Adjust the creaminess: For those who love a little more sauce, consider adding a splash of cream when whisking the egg yolks.
Variation
Want to switch things up? Try using smoked trout instead of salmon for a different flavor profile. Or for a lighter spin, swap pasta for zoodles (zucchini noodles). Going vegan? Substitute the egg yolks and cheese for a nut-based creamy sauce using cashews blended with nutritional yeast. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta variety you love can work here — just adjust the cooking time as needed. 🍝
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them right before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Just make sure your Parmesan is certified gluten-free as well!
How can I make the sauce creamier?
If you want even more creaminess, feel free to mix in a splash of heavy cream or extra cheese into the egg mixture.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a little pasta water for later.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- In a large skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the garlic, allowing the flavors to mingle.
- Pour the egg yolk and cheese mixture over the pasta quickly, stirring to create a creamy sauce. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Gently fold in the smoked salmon, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Dish out and garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving hot.