Smoked Salmon Carbonara

Name: Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 150g smoked salmon, chopped; 100g Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 large eggs; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight your taste buds with this creamy Smoked Salmon Carbonara that offers a unique twist on a classic Italian dish. Featuring rich flavors of smoked salmon blended with al dente pasta, Parmesan cheese, and a luscious sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Elevate your culinary game with this gourmet yet easy-to-make dish that showcases the deliciousness of smoked salmon.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-18T04:16:15.741Z

This Smoked Salmon Carbonara is a delightful twist on the traditional recipe. The smokiness of the salmon complements the creamy sauce perfectly, creating a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying.

A Modern Take on Carbonara

Carbonara is a beloved Italian classic, known for its simplicity and rich flavors. Traditionally made with pancetta or guanciale, this modern twist incorporates the luxurious taste of smoked salmon, elevating the dish into gourmet territory. This adaptation maintains the essence of carbonara while introducing a nuanced flavor profile that will astound your palate.

The use of smoked salmon not only adds a unique taste but also brings a dose of omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a healthier option. The creaminess of the sauce, enhanced by the eggs and Parmesan cheese, harmonizes beautifully with the smoky notes. Together, they create a delightful experience that is both satisfying and sophisticated.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick meal after a long day, Smoked Salmon Carbonara fits the bill perfectly. Its elegant presentation and refined flavors make it suitable for formal gatherings, while its straightforward preparation allows it to be an accessible option for weeknight dinners.

This recipe can also be easily adapted to cater to your guests' dietary preferences. Consider swapping the spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, and feel free to adjust the amount of cheese or add seasonal vegetables. Such flexibility ensures that you can create a dish that pleases every palate at your table.

Tips for Perfecting Your Carbonara

To ensure your carbonara turns out perfectly creamy without scrambling the eggs, it's essential to work quickly after draining the pasta. The residual heat from the spaghetti will cook the egg mixture gently. Always reserve some pasta water to help adjust the sauce's consistency, making it richer and more luxurious.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce or including a pinch of nutmeg. Freshly cracked black pepper on top offers an aromatic kick that ties all the ingredients together beautifully. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors until you've found your preferred balance.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200g spaghetti
150g smoked salmon, chopped
100g Parmesan cheese, grated
2 large eggs
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather these fresh ingredients before you begin to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In the same pot used for the pasta, add the hot spaghetti and the egg mixture. Toss quickly to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.

Add the Salmon

Fold in the smoked salmon and mix gently until evenly distributed. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve

Plate the carbonara and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately.

Serve this delightful dish with a light salad and a glass of white wine for the perfect meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Smoked Salmon Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help revive the creamy texture of the sauce.

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid drying it out. If you're in a hurry, a microwave is a quick alternative; just cover the dish to retain moisture. Keep in mind that the flavor may diminish slightly after storage, but the dish will still be delicious.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Pairing wine with Smoked Salmon Carbonara can elevate your dining experience. A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the smoky notes from the salmon beautifully, bringing freshness that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

For something bolder, consider a light Pinot Grigio or an unoaked Chardonnay. These wines will enhance the rich flavors without overpowering the dish. If you're a red wine lover, opt for a light-bodied red like a Gamay, which can also harmonize well with the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, though spaghetti is traditional.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook when ready.