Creamy Spinach Pasta with Seared Salmon
Ingredients:
For the pasta:
8 oz ruffled pasta (e.g., pappardelle or farfalle)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the salmon:
2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter (for finishing the salmon)
For garnish:
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Make the creamy spinach sauce:
In a large pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, until it starts to thicken.
Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to wilt down. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then toss in the cooked pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Keep on low heat while you cook the salmon.
3. Cook the salmon:
Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if using skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the salmon is crispy and golden brown on the outside, and cooked through in the center.
Once cooked, add 1 tbsp butter to the pan and spoon the melted butter over the salmon for added flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets and remove from the pan.
4. Serve:
Plate the creamy spinach pasta and top each serving with a piece of seared salmon.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting meal with that golden, crispy salmon! Perfect for a cozy dinner.