Amazing Smoked Salmon Carbonara for Delicious Comfort

Smoked Salmon Carbonara is like a hug in a bowl, wrapping you in creamy goodness and smoky flavors. Imagine twirling your fork through luscious pasta, each bite bursting with the rich taste of smoked salmon, while crispy bits of pancetta dance around like they own the place. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, calling loved ones to the dinner table faster than any family gathering can muster.

this Recipe for Later

This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with friends, laughter echoing off the walls as we devoured plate after plate. It’s perfect for date nights, casual get-togethers, or just a self-care evening when all you want is to indulge in something delicious. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will have you dreaming of seconds. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes.

I remember the first time I made Smoked Salmon Carbonara; my friends were skeptical but ended up fighting over the last bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I love using spaghetti or fettuccine for their perfect sauce-hugging capability.
• Smoked Salmon: Use high-quality smoked salmon; it adds depth and a delightful flavor explosion.
• Pancetta or Bacon: Choose pancetta for its rich taste, though crispy bacon works wonders too!
• Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for creating that creamy sauce; they bind everything together beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for best results; it brings an irresistible umami punch.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and enhances all those smoky flavors.
• Garlic: Sautéed garlic elevates the flavor profile and fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness to your final dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes depending on package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sauté Pancetta and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced pancetta or bacon. Cook until crispy, around 5-7 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not burnt.

Prepare the Sauce Mixture: While the pasta cooks, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Season generously with black pepper—the more the merrier!

Add Smoked Salmon and Combine Everything: Once the pasta is drained (remember that reserved water), add it to the skillet with pancetta and garlic. Pour egg mixture over hot pasta immediately—stir quickly to create that beautiful creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.

Tweak Consistency if Needed: If the sauce feels too thick or dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until reaching desired creaminess—aim for silky perfection!

Garnish and Serve Hot!: Plate your Smoked Salmon Carbonara elegantly; sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately as everyone gathers around with forks at the ready!

Enjoy this culinary masterpiece that promises laughter-filled moments at every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta until al dente while preparing the sauce. Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add cream and cheese. Finally, fold in the smoked salmon and cooked pasta for a harmonious blend of flavors. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips for pasta recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Smoked Salmon Carbonara! Swap in different cheeses like goat cheese or add capers for an extra zing. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also brighten up the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover carbonara in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of dinner parties filled with laughter and compliments from friends. Everyone adored my creative take on this classic dish and begged for seconds!

FAQ

What pasta works best for Smoked Salmon Carbonara?

Fettuccine or spaghetti pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and salmon.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook it first before adding to the sauce.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese quantity slightly.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Smoked Salmon Carbonara

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• Author: Aliza
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Smoked Salmon Carbonara is a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring creamy sauce and smoky flavors that create an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests, this pasta dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 4 oz high-quality smoked salmon, chopped
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced pancetta until crispy (5-7 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan until smooth. Season with black pepper.
4. Add drained pasta to the skillet, then pour the egg mixture over it. Stir quickly to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
5. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 180mg