If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive, this Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish will quickly become one of your favorites. Creamy, lemony, and loaded with tender salmon and vibrant spinach, it comes together in just over half an hour but looks (and tastes!) like a restaurant-worthy meal. Perfect for a cozy weeknight with family or a special dinner with friends, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into pure pasta magic, delivering a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.

Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish is in its fresh, straightforward ingredients. Each item on the list has a role—bringing either creaminess, zing, color, or heartiness to the final result. When you bring them together, you’ll get big flavors with minimal fuss.

Pasta (8 ounces fettuccine or linguine): The classic strands soak up the velvety sauce beautifully—try whole wheat or gluten-free, too!
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A smooth, fruity base for sautéing and finishing the dish with a subtle Mediterranean flair.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings that signature aroma and bold, irresistible flavor to the sauce.
Fresh salmon fillet (1 pound, skin removed): The showstopper—rich, flaky, and perfectly savory.
Fresh spinach (4 cups, roughly chopped): Adds a hearty dose of greens and pretty color to every bite.
Heavy cream (1 cup): This is your secret to a lush, restaurant-worthy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Gives the dish its deeply savory flavor and irresistible creaminess.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Fresh zest wakes up the rich flavors and cuts through the heaviness.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings brightness and a gentle acidity that flatters the salmon.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning, but utterly essential for depth of flavor.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For an optional hint of gentle heat that peps up every mouthful.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A final fresh touch that makes every serving irresistible.

How to Make Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil—salty water is the trick to flavorful pasta. Add your fettuccine or linguine and cook until just al dente (about 8–10 minutes), stirring here and there so nothing sticks. Right before you drain it, scoop out about a cup of the starchy pasta water. This is your insurance for a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta and drizzle a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Season your salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon juice for brightness. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then place the salmon fillet in and let it cook for 4–5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a lovely golden sear and cooked-through pink flesh. Remove the salmon and let it cool slightly—this makes it easier to flake into hearty bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Greens

Using the same skillet (don’t let those flavorful brown bits go to waste), add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, toss in the chopped spinach. Let it wilt for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently so it softens without losing its vibrant color.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir it all together. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens to a rich, dreamy texture. Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes too. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, seasoning well with salt and pepper until the flavors are bright and balanced.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet, tossing well to make sure every strand is generously coated in the creamy sauce. Now, gently fold in the flaked salmon, being careful to keep some pieces whole for texture and presentation. If the sauce seems a little thick, pour in that reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time, until you have a silky, clinging consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish into bowls or onto plates, making sure there’s an even distribution of salmon and greens in each portion. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and aroma, and bring it straight to the table while steamy and fresh.

How to Serve Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish

Garnishes

You can’t go wrong adding a flourish of freshly chopped parsley on top, maybe even a bit more lemon zest or an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil gives it a glossy, luxurious finish. Don’t forget some fresh-cracked black pepper for that final aromatic note.

Side Dishes

This Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish pairs deliciously with a simple green salad (think arugula and shaved fennel with lemon vinaigrette) or crisp roasted veggies like asparagus or broccolini. For something indulgent, offer a warm basket of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try piling the pasta high in a large serving platter and nestle whole pieces of salmon over the top, garnished with bright lemon slices and extra parsley. You can even serve it family-style so everyone can help themselves. For a fun twist, twirl single portions into nests and top each with a generous salmon flake—restaurant vibes at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish keeps best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying. Try to store any garnishes or extra parsley separately to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

While creamy pastas can sometimes lose their silky texture when frozen, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Spoon it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. It’s best eaten within a month for optimal taste and texture. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight rather than at room temperature.

Reheating

Gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help revive that creamy sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long or at high power, as the salmon can dry out and the sauce may separate. Stir continuously for best results and always taste for seasoning before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish?

Absolutely! Simply thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking. Frozen salmon works well, and once cooked, it flakes up just like fresh.

What other pasta shapes work well?

Fettuccine and linguine are classic, but you can also use penne, spaghetti, or even fusilli. The key is to choose a shape that holds onto the creamy sauce for every satisfying bite.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in whole-milk Greek yogurt stirred in at the very end for creaminess without the extra richness.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider stirring in chopped fresh dill, basil, or tarragon for a herby kick. Sautéed cherry tomatoes or blanched asparagus also make tasty, colorful additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The classic version isn’t, but just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta! Make sure your Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s both cozy and a little bit special, this Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish is always a winner. With creamy sauce, bright spinach, and flaky salmon, it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you may have found your new go-to pasta night favorite!