Creamy Hot Smoked Salmon Pasta (Print Page)

Silky smoked salmon in a creamy sauce with fettuccine, ready in 30 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz dried fettuccine or tagliatelle

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 2 shallots, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2/3 cup dry white wine
06 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
07 - 1 tsp lemon zest
08 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
09 - 7 oz hot smoked salmon, flaked
10 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
11 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - Freshly ground black pepper
13 - Extra dill
14 - Lemon wedges

# Directions:

01 - Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
03 - Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
04 - Stir in the cream and lemon zest, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
05 - Add the flaked hot smoked salmon and half the chopped dill. Warm through without overcooking.
06 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
07 - Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra dill, a grind of black pepper, and lemon wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The smoky richness pairs perfectly with a velvety cream sauce for pure comfort.
  • It comes together in under thirty minutes, making it ideal for stressful weeknights.
02 -
  • Reserve pasta water before draining to save your sauce if it gets too thick.
  • Do not boil the cream vigorously once added, or it might separate.
03 -
  • Use half-and-half for a lighter version that still feels indulgent.
  • Chopped chives work beautifully if you are not a fan of dill.