Paccheri al Salmone: A Luxurious and Creamy Italian Pasta Dish
If you’re looking to impress with a luxurious, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish, Paccheri al Salmone is a fantastic choice. This decadent Italian recipe combines the richness of salmon with the creamy texture of robiola cheese, all wrapped in hearty, large pasta tubes that soak up the flavors beautifully. It’s a perfect dish for a special dinner or a comforting family meal. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable pasta!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Paccheri al Salmone for 4 servings:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paccheri pasta | 320g |
| Salmon fillet | 650g |
| Robiola cheese | 200g |
| Taggiasca olives | 45g |
| Dry white wine | 50g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Chives | 5g |
| Lime zest | to taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| White pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information
Although the dish is indulgent, it provides a balanced mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty meal.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Sugars | 3g |
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then add a pinch of salt once it reaches a rolling boil. Add the paccheri pasta to the water and cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 20 minutes or until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
While the pasta is cooking, begin preparing the salmon. Remove the skin from the salmon fillet and cut it into small chunks. Next, finely chop the chives and set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Salmon
In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic clove (whole) and sauté it gently until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Once the garlic is aromatic, add the salmon chunks to the pan. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Let the salmon cook, turning occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on all sides.
Step 4: Add the White Wine
Once the salmon is lightly cooked, pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Stir gently to combine the flavors, and let the salmon continue cooking until fully cooked through. The salmon should be tender and flaky.
Step 5: Prepare the Robiola Cream
While the salmon cooks, take a small bowl and place the robiola cheese in it. Add a ladle of the pasta cooking water to the cheese and mix well to form a smooth, creamy consistency. This step will help loosen the cheese and create a silky sauce for the pasta.
Step 6: Combine the Salmon and Creamy Sauce
Once the salmon is done, lower the heat and pour the creamy robiola mixture into the skillet with the salmon. Stir gently to combine everything into a luscious, creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. The sauce should be thick yet smooth, coating the salmon perfectly.
Step 7: Add the Pasta to the Sauce
When the pasta is done cooking, reserve about a cup of pasta water and then drain the paccheri. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy salmon sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once the pasta is well coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped chives and grated lime zest for a burst of freshness. The citrusy lime will balance the richness of the dish and add a zesty aroma.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle a bit more extra virgin olive oil on top for extra flavor, and serve immediately. The Paccheri al Salmone should be creamy, rich, and full of delicate flavors from the salmon, olives, and lime. It’s a delightful dish that will surely impress anyone at the table.
Tips for Perfect Paccheri al Salmone
- Pasta Cooking Time: Ensure that the paccheri is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Frozen salmon works too, but fresh salmon will provide a more delicate and flavorful taste.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other ingredients like capers or a pinch of chili flakes if you want an extra layer of flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Paccheri al Salmone is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special celebration or just want to enjoy a comforting Italian meal, this recipe delivers a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave you coming back for more. The addition of lime zest and chives adds a fresh and unexpected twist that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon and robiola.
With these simple steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. Whether paired with a crisp white wine or enjoyed on its own, Paccheri al Salmone is a meal that’s sure to impress.
Enjoy your meal and celebrate the joy of cooking with love!
