Smoked Salmon Carbonara

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your pasta night with this Smoked Salmon Carbonara that perfectly blends creamy sauce with the rich, smoky flavor of salmon. Quick to prepare, this dish is a delightful twist on traditional carbonara, featuring fresh herbs and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of freshness. Perfectly comforting yet sophisticated, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-20T01:49:07.409Z

This smoked salmon carbonara recipe brings an elegant twist to classic Italian comfort food.

A Modern Take on a Classic Dish

Carbonara is a beloved Italian dish that has captivated taste buds around the world with its rich and creamy profile. This Smoked Salmon Carbonara variant adds an exciting twist, bringing the bold nuances of smoked salmon into the mix. The combination of the smoky flavor with traditional pasta carbonara ingredients creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Elevating the flavors of this beloved classic, the infusion of fresh herbs and the brightness of lemon zest helps to cut through the richness of the cream and cheese. This not only brings balance but also ensures each bite is refreshing. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises to impress with its elegant presentation and delightful flavor profile.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the great aspects of this Smoked Salmon Carbonara recipe is its versatility. It's perfect for an intimate dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The dish can be whipped up quickly, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you're short on time but still want to enjoy something special.

With its creamy sauce and luxurious ingredients, this carbonara dish feels indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare. It's a fantastic way to showcase gourmet flavors while keeping the cooking process simple and manageable. Impress your guests without the stress of labor-intensive recipes, all while savoring flavors that feel sophisticated and unique.

Tips for the Best Carbonara

To ensure your Smoked Salmon Carbonara turns out perfectly, it's essential to work with quality ingredients. Opt for fresh pasta if available, as it cooks more quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. When selecting smoked salmon, look for options that are sustainably sourced, ensuring a delicious moisture-rich experience.

Timing is key in this recipe; aiming to add the sauce mixture to the warm pasta helps to create a luscious, silky texture. Be cautious not to scramble the eggs; the heat from the spaghetti should be just enough to cook the eggs gently. Stir quickly and thoroughly, so every strand of pasta is coated and enriched with flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Carbonara

200g spaghetti
150g smoked salmon, sliced
2 large eggs
100ml heavy cream
50g grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for an efficient cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked salmon and cook for about 1 minute. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over it, tossing quickly to combine while the pasta is still warm.

Serve and Garnish

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Make sure to serve your pasta hot for the best experience!

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Smoked Salmon Carbonara with a crisp green salad is an excellent way to complement the dish while adding a refreshing crunch. A simple vinaigrette with lemon juice and olive oil can enhance the overall dining experience and tie in beautifully with the lemon zest in the pasta.

For added indulgence, consider serving your carbonara with a side of garlic bread or freshly baked focaccia. These options provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta and ensure no sauce is left behind.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, it's essential to store your Smoked Salmon Carbonara properly. Place any remaining pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best consumed within a day or two for optimal freshness and texture. The cream and eggs can separate upon standing, so giving the dish a gentle stir before reheating can help reincorporate the ingredients.

When reheating, you can use either a microwave or a stovetop pan over low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore the creamy consistency and make it easier to warm without becoming dry. Enjoy your delicious creation again and savor every bite!

Nutritional Insights

This Smoked Salmon Carbonara not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a variety of nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. Coupled with the carbohydrates from the spaghetti, this dish offers a balanced meal ideal for energizing your day.

While deliciously creamy, this recipe also includes options for lighter alternatives, such as substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or using a reduced amount of cheese. This way, you can enjoy a delectable dining experience while being mindful of your dietary preferences and health goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?

Yes, but the flavor will be different. You can lightly cook the fresh salmon before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta.