Description

This pasta dish features tender spaghetti tossed with flaky canned salmon, fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. A light, savory sauce is created with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon, harmonizing with the rich salmon. The dish offers a comforting texture and a balanced flavor profile, making it a satisfying meal prepared on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (6 ounce) can salmon, drained and flaked
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 lemon, juiced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the drained and flaked salmon to the skillet, gently breaking it up further with a spoon. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through and absorb the flavors.
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the salmon mixture.
Pour in the reserved pasta water, fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and a light sauce forms.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Ensure the canned salmon is well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

The reserved pasta water is crucial for creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

For an added layer of flavor, a pinch of lemon zest can be added along with the lemon juice.

Consider adding capers or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a briny or tangy contrast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 550 kcal
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 35g