Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce
Try this Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce recipe.
Try this Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce recipe.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 t flour
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 pint heavy cream
- 1 pound fresh fettuccine (dried if you can't get fresh)
- 8 oz smoked salmon (i like to get the thick stuff that not the thin-sliced stuff)
- 1/2 c finely minced red onion
- 4 t salted butter
- 2 t fresh chopped dill (and extra for garnish)
- salt and fresh black pepper
- Carbohydrate 9.09085937534321 g
- Cholesterol 8.80000000743908 mg
- Fat 3.00728125241855 g
- Fiber 2.30546875186265 g
- Protein 6.30951562825122 g
- Saturated Fat 1.75575468896254 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (224g)
- Sodium 220.536125129254 mg
- Sugar 6.78539062348057 g
- Trans Fat 0.215995312648866 g
- Calories 89 calories
Step-by-step
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions, and cook until just softening, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Add the cream, dill, and parmesan, and whisk to incorporate.
- Allow the sauce to come to a boil and immediately reduce heat to low, stirring constantly.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
- Just as the pasta is finishing, add the smoked salmon (cut into bite-sized pieces) and peas to the sauce.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes just to heat them through.
- Season the sauce with plenty of black pepper, and depending on how salty your salmon is, with a pinch of salt.
- Strain and drain the pasta and toss with the sauce.
- Serve with a sprinkling of fresh dill and parmesan.
- Enjoy!
A Simple Weeknight Delight: Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the household running smoothly, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and elegant recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce is one of those gems. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, and tastes far more sophisticated than its simple preparation suggests.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. High-quality ingredients shine through, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The rich, creamy sauce, infused with the delicate aroma of fresh dill, perfectly complements the salty, smoky notes of the salmon. The vibrant green peas add a touch of freshness and sweetness, balancing the richness of the sauce. And the al dente fettuccine provides the perfect canvas for this delectable combination.
I often find myself making this recipe on busy weeknights. It's a reliable crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. My kids love it, and my husband always requests seconds. It’s the type of meal that feels indulgent yet manageable, a delicious escape from the daily grind. Plus, the cleanup is minimal – a huge bonus when you're already short on time.
Beyond the Weeknight: This recipe is surprisingly versatile and adaptable. It can easily be transformed into a more elegant dish for a dinner party or a special occasion. Consider using higher-quality, wild-caught salmon, or add some sautéed mushrooms or asparagus for extra depth of flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving adds a bright and refreshing note.
Ingredient Considerations: I prefer using fresh fettuccine whenever possible, as the texture is superior to the dried variety. However, if fresh pasta is unavailable, dried fettuccine works just as well. Similarly, fresh dill has a more intense flavor than dried dill, but if you're short on time, dried dill can be substituted. Just be mindful of the quantity – use less dried dill than fresh.
The Smoked Salmon Story: I’ve experimented with different types of smoked salmon, and my personal preference leans towards the thicker cuts. They tend to hold their shape better in the sauce and offer a more satisfying bite. But, ultimately, the choice is yours. Use whatever kind you enjoy the most.
This Fettuccine with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a little bit of culinary creativity. It’s a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can still enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that nourishes both our bodies and our souls. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some greens: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula at the end for extra nutrients.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the smoked salmon with roasted vegetables like butternut squash or bell peppers.
- Creamy Variations: Experiment with different types of cream, like half-and-half or crème fraîche, to adjust the richness of the sauce.
- Cheese Please: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère.
This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version. Enjoy the process, enjoy the food, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a delicious and well-deserved meal after a long day.
