If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely have to try this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe. It perfectly blends tender flakes of salmon with vibrant spinach and creamy Parmesan sauce, all wrapped up with your favorite pasta. This dish hits all the right notes—rich, fresh, and utterly comforting—making it a delightful meal for any day of the week. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a white plate with five slices of fresh orange-pink salmon placed in the center. Around it are bowls and plates with dry, powdered, and leafy ingredients: a white bowl of pale yellow shredded cheese, a white bowl of fresh green spinach leaves, a small white bowl with a round clump of cream cheese, a white plate with thin yellow potato sticks, and several small white dishes holding spices such as red pepper flakes, white granules, black pepper, and a light brown powder. There is also a bowl with a pale yellow powder and another with a white powder, along with a small glass dish of golden liquid. All items are neatly arranged and the colors contrast well on the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe lies in its use of simple, wholesome ingredients that each contribute unique flavors and textures. From the buttery sautéed onion to the bright and tender spinach, every component plays a crucial role in delivering a balanced and satisfying dish.

1 lb. salmon (skinless and boneless): Fresh salmon provides rich omega-3s and flaky texture that’s the star of the dish.
8 oz. uncooked pasta (campanelle preferred): The pasta’s shape traps the creamy sauce perfectly for each bite.
3 tbsp. butter: Adds luscious richness to the sautéed onions and overall sauce base.
1 medium onion (chopped): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
6 oz. baby spinach: Offers a burst of color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously creamy texture that ties everything together.
1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a sharp, umami kick and thickens the sauce wonderfully.
2 garlic cloves (minced): Inject subtle aromatic notes to elevate the overall flavor.
2 tbsp. parsley (chopped): Provides a bright herbal freshness that lifts the dish.
1/2 tsp. salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
1/4 tsp. pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle warmth to balance the creaminess.

How to Make Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. The salt seasons the pasta from within, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Be mindful not to overcook, as it will continue to soften later in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the onion

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and sweet, forming a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the salmon

Gently add the salmon to the skillet and cook it for 5 to 7 minutes. As it cooks, break the salmon into generous flakes that will mingle beautifully in your pasta. This step guarantees tender, flaky bites throughout the dish.

Step 4: Wilt the spinach

Once the salmon is nearly done, stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted. The spinach adds a vibrant green color and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cream and salmon.

Step 5: Make the creamy sauce

Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes here for subtle heat that wakes up the palate.

Step 6: Combine pasta and finish

Drain the cooked pasta and toss it into the skillet with the creamy sauce, salmon, and spinach. Mix thoroughly so every strand is coated in luscious sauce. Finish by stirring in chopped parsley, adding freshness and a pop of color. Top it all off with some extra grated Parmesan.

How to Serve Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe

The dish shows a white plate filled with three layers of food. The bottom layer is pasta with a light golden color and smooth texture. The middle layer has cooked green kale leaves mixed through the pasta. On top, there is light brown grated cheese sprinkled across, adding a rough texture. A silver fork and knife sit next to the plate on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is reaching slightly over the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan are classic choices that complement this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe perfectly. You might also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light salads such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette or crisp cucumber salad. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also wonderful for soaking up that irresistible creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the Salmon Pasta with Spinach on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Try layering the pasta in shallow individual bowls with salmon flakes artfully arranged on top to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after resting, making for delicious next-day meals.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture and salmon’s moisture.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as slow reheating better preserves the creamy sauce and tender salmon pieces.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe?

Absolutely! While campanelle is great because its shape holds sauce well, penne, fusilli, or farfalle will also work beautifully. Just choose your favorite pasta shape that can catch the creamy sauce effectively.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream in this recipe?

Heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious, rich texture. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work but will impart a different flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be moist and tender. Overcooking will dry it out, so cook just 5 to 7 minutes and break it gently as it cooks for ideal texture throughout the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or peas could be wonderful additions. Add them while sautéing the onion or just before the spinach so they cook through but retain their freshness and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe works well for meal prep as it reheats nicely. Portion it out into containers for quick lunches or dinners during the week. Just remember to add fresh herbs after reheating for a burst of brightness.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong with this Salmon Pasta with Spinach Recipe. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding family and friends. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your most-loved go-to dinners that feels special every time.