This creamy smoked salmon carbonara is a rich and tasty dish featuring pasta, dreamy cream sauce, and delicious smoked salmon. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who can resist that silky sauce? Plus, the salmon gives it a fun twist! I love whipping this up when I want comfort food without a lot of fuss. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: While I used traditional spaghetti, you can swap it for linguine or fettuccine if you prefer a wider noodle. Gluten-free options like quinoa or chickpea pasta work well too!
Smoked Salmon: If smoked salmon isn’t available, you can use canned salmon or cooked shrimp for a different seafood twist. Just note that the flavors will change slightly!
Eggs: For a dairy-free version, try using silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute for heavy cream and eggs. It adds creaminess without the dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast can be a fantastic dairy-free hack for a cheesy note!
Heavy Cream: If you’re watching your calories, you can use half-and-half instead. For a lighter version, opt for a plant-based cream like coconut cream.
How Do I Avoid Scrambled Eggs in the Sauce?
The key to creating a creamy sauce without scrambled eggs is to ensure your pan is off the heat when you add the egg mixture. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook your pasta, then drain but keep that reserved pasta water handy.
- While the pasta cooks, mix the egg, cream, and cheese.
- Once the pasta is done, immediately transfer it to the skillet with the salmon.
- Remove from heat, then quickly pour in your egg mixture while tossing the pasta constantly. This helps ensure a smooth sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of your reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach your desired creaminess!
Following these steps will help you create a delightful creamy carbonara without any eggy lumps! Enjoy making this delicious dish!
Creamy Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 6 oz (170g) smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: lemon zest for extra brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the spaghetti and sauce, and another 10 minutes for assembling and plating. A quick, satisfying meal is on the way!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti. Set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a bowl and whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until it’s nice and smooth. This will be your creamy sauce, so set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Garlic and Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it brown. Next, add the smoked salmon pieces to the skillet and lightly sear them for 1-2 minutes just to warm them through and achieve slightly crispy edges.
4. Combine Pasta with the Salmon:
Now it’s time to add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the pasta with the salmon and garlic, making sure it’s all mixed well.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and slowly pour the egg-cream-Parmesan mixture over the pasta. Stir it continuously to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Serve:
Generously season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. If you’d like a touch of brightness, feel free to sprinkle some lemon zest on top.
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and savor the creamy, smoky richness of this delightful carbonara. It’s quick, elegant, and utterly delicious—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
FAQs for Creamy Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier option and adds a nutty flavor. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as it may vary slightly from regular spaghetti.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting traditional spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta option, such as brown rice or corn pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and butter (1 cup of milk + 2 tbsp melted butter) for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce will be a bit less rich, but still delicious!
Can I Reheat Leftover Carbonara?
Yes, you can reheat leftovers! For the best results, warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but stir frequently to avoid overheating.
