Name: Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 4 oz high-quality smoked salmon, chopped; 2 large eggs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Print Recipe

A plate of Smoked Salmon Carbonara is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with its creamy sauce wrapping around al dente pasta and smoky salmon. The delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water and your heart skip a beat. crispy corn fritters This dish combines comfort and sophistication, perfect for a cozy dinner or a fancy brunch that will impress your guests. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Pasta Delight recipe.

Picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and as your friends take their first bites, the room fills with compliments. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. savory salmon bites Whether it’s a rainy Saturday night or a sunlit Sunday brunch, this Smoked Salmon Carbonara will have everyone at the table asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Smoked Salmon Carbonara is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Its rich flavor profile dazzles your taste buds with every bite
The stunning presentation makes it a star dish for entertaining guests
Versatile enough to enjoy any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

I remember the first time I made Smoked Salmon Carbonara for my family; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. delectable crab stack They were convinced I had taken a cooking class in Italy!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta (Spaghetti or Fettuccine): Choose long pasta to capture the creamy sauce beautifully.
Smoked Salmon: Opt for high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor; it’s worth it.
Eggs: Fresh eggs create a rich sauce; use large eggs for optimal creaminess. fresh citrus crab salad.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor; avoid pre-grated varieties if possible.
Cream: Use heavy cream to achieve that luxurious texture; half-and-half won’t cut it here.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds depth; don’t skimp on this essential seasoning.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions while stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside so flavors meld. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe.

Sauté the Salmon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add small pieces of smoked salmon. Cook until warmed through and fragrant—about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water before draining. Add hot pasta directly into the skillet with salmon.

Toss Everything Together: Remove skillet from heat and slowly pour in the egg mixture while tossing quickly to prevent scrambling. Add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired creaminess.

Season and Serve: Season generously with freshly cracked black pepper and toss again. Garnish with parsley if desired before serving warm.

Enjoying your homemade Smoked Salmon Carbonara will have you feeling like an Italian culinary master in no time!

You Must Know

Smoked Salmon Carbonara combines creamy goodness with a smoky twist
The rich flavors will transport your taste buds to Italy, while the quick prep makes it perfect for busy nights or impressing guests
Plus, it’s a delightful way to enjoy your pasta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then prepare the sauce in a separate pan. Combine everything just before serving for the creamiest texture and maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap smoked salmon for grilled chicken or add capers for an extra zing. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to enhance the dish’s aroma.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality smoked salmon for rich flavor; it makes all the difference in this dish
Always reserve some pasta water when draining, as it helps adjust sauce consistency
Finally, never let the sauce boil once combined, or you’ll lose that creamy texture!

Sharing my first Smoked Salmon Carbonara experience still brings a smile; my friends devoured it and begged for seconds, claiming it was restaurant-quality!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?

Fresh salmon works, but you’ll need to cook it first for safety and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta as a perfect alternative without sacrificing taste.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Try using cashew cream or coconut milk instead of traditional cream for a dairy-free version.