Looking for a meal that’s fast, healthy, and indulgently creamy all at once? This Salmon Spinach Pasta delivers on every front—perfectly cooked salmon flakes, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta tossed in a light, creamy garlic sauce. It’s elegant enough for date night, yet simple enough for busy weeknights.
With heart-healthy omega-3s from the salmon, iron-rich spinach, and comforting carbs from pasta, this is a one-pan meal that satisfies cravings and fuels your body.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Packed with protein, greens, and flavor
✅ Ready in 30 minutes or less
✅ Light, creamy sauce without heavy cream (optional)
✅ Perfect for meal prep or elegant dinners
✅ Easily adaptable with fresh or canned salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz pasta (penne, linguine, or spaghetti work great)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 salmon fillets, skin removed (or 1 cup cooked, flaked salmon)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cream, half-and-half, or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chili flakes, fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes
How to Make Salmon Spinach Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Salmon
In a skillet, heat olive oil. Season salmon with salt and pepper and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside. Flake into chunks with a fork.
3. Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds), then add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Make the Sauce
Stir in cream (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan, lemon zest and juice. Simmer for 1–2 minutes. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Combine Everything
Add pasta and flaked salmon to the skillet. Toss gently until well coated. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon as needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Use wild-caught salmon for best flavor
- Don’t overcook the salmon—it should flake easily and stay moist
- Add extra greens like kale or arugula for more fiber
- A sprinkle of chili flakes gives a gentle heat kick
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a finishing touch
Variations
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese
- Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
- Extra veg: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas
- Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta before serving
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce
- Not recommended for freezing due to dairy and spinach texture
What to Serve It With
- A light side salad or roasted veggies
- Garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls
- A crisp glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
Final Thoughts
This Salmon Spinach Pasta is a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich dish that proves healthy meals don’t have to be boring. It’s simple, elegant, and satisfying—making it a staple for weeknights, special dinners, or when you need something delicious without the fuss.
Fresh. Creamy. Comfort in a bowl. 🐟🍝🥬