Linguine with Smoked Salmon and Zucchini Cream Sauce
If you’re craving a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the delicate taste of zucchini, this Linguine with Smoked Salmon and Zucchini Cream Sauce is the perfect recipe for you. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a casual meal with friends, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, making it a truly indulgent experience. The creamy sauce, enriched with smoked salmon and fresh zucchini, is perfectly complemented by the al dente linguine. Simple yet elegant, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress!
Serves: 4
Category: First Course (Primi Piatti)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Linguine | 320g |
| Smoked Salmon | 200g |
| Zucchini | 400g |
| Fresh Cream (Panna fresca) | 200ml |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 |
| Black Pepper | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~540 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~60g |
| Fat | ~25g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~700mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by cutting the smoked salmon into small pieces. Set it aside for later. Next, wash and trim the ends of the zucchinis, then slice them into thin rounds. -
Sauté the Garlic and Smoked Salmon
In a large pan, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Peel one garlic clove, crush it lightly with the side of your knife, and add it to the pan. Sauté it for just a few seconds until it releases its aroma. Add the smoked salmon and cook it for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the salmon is cooked, remove the garlic clove from the pan and turn off the heat. -
Cook the Zucchini
In the same pan, add another splash of olive oil and place the second garlic clove, which you can crush or slice. Sauté for a few seconds, then add the zucchini slices. Season with salt and a pinch of black pepper, and cook for around 15 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the zucchini cooks evenly and softens, but doesn’t turn mushy. -
Boil the Pasta
While the zucchini is cooking, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. -
Make the Creamy Salmon Sauce
While the pasta cooks, take the cooked smoked salmon and blend it using an immersion blender until smooth. Add the fresh cream to the salmon mixture and blend again until it’s fully incorporated into a creamy sauce. -
Combine the Ingredients
When the linguine is ready, drain the pasta and reserve a small amount of the cooking water. Return the linguine to the pot, and pour the creamy salmon sauce over it. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. -
Serve
Once the pasta is well coated with the creamy salmon sauce, add the sautéed zucchini and give everything a final mix. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the Linguine with Smoked Salmon and Zucchini Cream Sauce immediately, while it’s still hot, and enjoy the richness of this comforting dish!
Tips for Perfect Linguine with Smoked Salmon and Zucchini
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Use fresh ingredients: The flavor of fresh zucchini and high-quality smoked salmon can make all the difference in this dish. Look for a good piece of salmon to ensure the best taste and texture.
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Blend to your preferred consistency: If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can pulse the salmon and cream in the blender just briefly. For a smoother texture, blend it longer.
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Customize the seasoning: Feel free to add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a touch of brightness and an extra layer of flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
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Make it a lighter version: For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a different but still creamy texture.
This Linguine with Smoked Salmon and Zucchini Cream Sauce is a fantastic choice for an elegant weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. It’s a deliciously creamy pasta that combines fresh, healthy ingredients with a rich, indulgent flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started, this recipe is simple to prepare and will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
