Creating a print-friendly and thoroughly detailed recipe for Smoked Salmon and Capers in a Champagne Sauce for Pasta is an exciting prospect, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your holiday meal plan. This delightful dish combines the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with the subtle acidity of champagne and the briny notes of capers, all enveloped in a luxurious cream sauce. Here’s how you can bring this gourmet experience to your table:
Smoked Salmon and Capers in a Champagne Sauce for Pasta
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Recipe Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Australian
Difficulty: Easy
Cooking Method: Stove Top
Dietary: Very Low Carbs
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 125 ml champagne (or sparkling wine)
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 200 grams smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons small capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pasta of your choice (such as fettuccine or linguine), cooked according to package instructions
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 340.1 kcal
- Fat: 29.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 15.3 g
- Cholesterol: 96.4 mg
- Sodium: 545.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.3 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sugars: 0.4 g
- Protein: 10.7 g
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
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Incorporate the Champagne:
- Pour in 125 ml of champagne.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the champagne is slightly reduced.
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Create the Cream Base:
- Add 250 ml of heavy cream to the pan.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency.
-
Add Flavor and Combine:
- Stir in the 200 grams of smoked salmon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of capers, 2 tablespoons of fresh chives, and 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
- Cook briefly until heated through.
-
Serve Over Pasta:
- Pour the sauce over your cooked pasta (approximately 250 grams dry weight, cooked according to package instructions).
- Toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
-
Season and Garnish:
- Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Garnish with additional chives or dill if desired.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the creamy, luxurious flavors with a glass of champagne on the side for a perfect pairing.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Champagne Substitute: If champagne isn’t available, a good-quality sparkling wine or even a dry white wine can be used as a substitute.
- Pasta Selection: While fettuccine and linguine work beautifully, you can also opt for pappardelle or spaghetti, depending on your preference.
- Herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking. Tarragon or parsley can provide a different but equally delightful flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Adding vegetables such as steamed asparagus tips or wilted spinach can complement the dish and add more color and nutrition.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover sauce separately from the pasta. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or champagne to loosen the sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Wine Pairing: Besides the champagne used in the sauce, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio can complement the dish nicely.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread can be an excellent accompaniment to mop up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Customization: You can adjust the richness of the sauce by using half-and-half or a lighter cream if preferred.
- Dietary: This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb diet. Ensure the smoked salmon is free from added sugars or fillers.
Review and Rating
This recipe has garnered an aggregated rating of 4 stars from 1 review. It’s praised for its elegant flavor combination and ease of preparation.
Reviewer’s Comment: “This dish was a hit at our holiday dinner. The champagne sauce was light yet rich, and the capers added a delightful burst of flavor. A definite repeat!”
With this recipe, you’ll be able to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your table effortlessly. Whether for a special occasion or a sophisticated weeknight dinner, Smoked Salmon and Capers in a Champagne Sauce for Pasta is sure to impress and delight your guests with its refined taste and beautiful presentation. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delightful compliments that will surely follow!
