Nigella Salmon Pasta

Dive into the delightful world of Nigella Lawson's Smoked Salmon Pasta, a dish that promises a quick, luxurious seafood pasta experience. Perfect for those who cherish the rich, smoky flavors of salmon intertwined with the comforting embrace of pasta, this recipe is a testament to Nigella's prowess in creating dishes that are both simple and deeply satisfying.
Brief Description of the Recipe Nigella Lawson's Smoked Salmon Pasta is an exquisite blend of smoked salmon, fusilli pasta, and a harmonious mix of garlic, lemon, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. It's a dish that effortlessly marries the smokiness of the salmon with the fresh zesty hint of lemon, resulting in a pasta that's bursting with flavor and texture.
Cultural or Historical Context This recipe is a reflection of Nigella Lawson's approach to cooking: food that is comforting, easy to prepare, and luxurious. Smoked salmon, a key ingredient, has a rich history, often associated with luxury and celebrations. Combined with pasta, it becomes a dish that's both accessible for a weeknight dinner and special enough for entertaining guests.
Ingredients List
- Smoked salmon (200 grams)
- Fusilli pasta (250 grams)
- Garlic puree (1 teaspoon)
- Lemon (1)
- Fresh Parmesan cheese (1 tub)
- Pesto (1 tablespoon)
- Butter (for frying, 1 tablespoon)
Preparation Instructions
- Start by cooking the fusilli pasta for approximately 10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a pan with oil over medium-high heat, and then add the smoked salmon, reducing the heat to medium.
- Add garlic to the salmon and cook until fully done.
- Once the pasta is cooked, mix in butter and pesto.
- Combine the salmon with the pasta, finishing off with a squeeze of lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Storage and Reheating For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta over low heat on the stove, adding a little water or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information This dish is rich in protein from the salmon and offers a good source of carbs through the pasta. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds calcium, but also fat and sodium, so those watching their intake should consider portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, while fusilli is recommended for its ability to hold onto the sauce, other pasta shapes can also be used.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan cheese? Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives can provide a similar umami flavor.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish? Certainly! Adding greens like spinach or peas can introduce more nutrients and color.
For those seeking a dish that combines the elegance of smoked salmon with the hearty comfort of pasta, Nigella Lawson's Smoked Salmon Pasta is a must-try. Its simplicity, coupled with the depth of flavor, makes it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Original recipe by Nigella Lawson.