The creamy salmon and pea pasta is a delicious fusion of simplicity and elegance, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Hot smoked salmon brings a subtly rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet pop of peas and the brightness of lemon zest. This dish is comforting yet light enough for spring and summer dining.
Best of all, it’s ready in just 25 minutes and uses pantry and freezer staples, making it a practical yet impressive choice for any home cook. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or cooking for one, this meal delivers both convenience and flavor in every bite.
Full Recipe:
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300g tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
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200g frozen peas
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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150ml single cream
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180g hot smoked salmon, skin removed and flaked
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Add the frozen peas to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
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While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
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Reduce the heat and stir in the cream. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
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Add the flaked salmon and lemon zest to the pan and gently stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
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Drain the pasta and peas, reserving a small cup of pasta water. Add the pasta and peas to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
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Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Pasta with Salmon & Peas is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
Pasta with salmon and peas is more than just a convenient weeknight dinner—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed dish that bridges indulgence with nutrition. This meal embodies the heart of modern home cooking: simple ingredients, a short cooking time, and a result that feels gourmet without being complicated.
Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing a romantic dinner for two, or simply craving a satisfying bowl of pasta, this creamy yet light dish delivers everything you need. The richness of hot smoked salmon, the sweetness of peas, and the zesty brightness of lemon create an elegant, balanced flavor profile that elevates your dinner without requiring any culinary acrobatics.
The Origins and Appeal of Salmon Pasta Dishes
While pasta dishes are deeply rooted in Italian cuisine, the combination of seafood and creamy sauces has become a staple of global comfort food. Creamy salmon pasta recipes gained popularity through their ability to feel indulgent while also being perceived as healthy due to the omega-3-rich salmon and the use of green vegetables.
The inclusion of peas offers a British flair—frozen peas are a kitchen staple across the UK and beyond, known for their convenience and ability to add color, nutrition, and subtle sweetness to countless dishes. Combining them with pasta and smoked salmon makes for a distinctly European dish that crosses borders in both style and popularity.
This particular recipe also nods to Scandinavian influences through the use of smoked fish and fresh herbs. It’s a culinary fusion that balances freshness, creaminess, and smokiness—perfect for modern palates.
What Makes Hot Smoked Salmon So Special?
Hot smoked salmon differs from cold smoked salmon in both texture and flavor. It is cooked during the smoking process, resulting in a flakier, firmer piece of fish that’s easier to stir into pasta sauces. Its rich, slightly salty flavor melts beautifully into creamy sauces and pairs perfectly with the light sweetness of peas and the acidity of lemon zest.
This is not your average salmon filet. Hot smoked salmon is already seasoned and infused with a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste of this dish without overwhelming the palate.
For home cooks, the best part is that hot smoked salmon is typically ready to eat straight from the package, cutting down on prep time significantly.
The Nutritional Benefits of Salmon and Peas
While the pasta and cream base provides comfort and satisfaction, the true nutritional stars of this recipe are the salmon and peas.
Salmon is loaded with high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and a wealth of vitamins such as B12 and D. Omega-3s, in particular, are celebrated for supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving cognitive function.
Peas, on the other hand, are rich in fiber, vitamin K, vitamin C, and plant-based protein. They’re also naturally low in fat and high in antioxidants. Together, they add a vibrant touch of green to your plate while contributing to a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal.
When combined with the carbohydrates in pasta, this trio forms a rounded meal that delivers on both energy and taste.
Creamy But Light: Finding the Right Balance
One of the most common concerns with creamy pasta dishes is the richness. Too heavy, and you’ll feel weighed down after eating. This salmon and pea pasta strikes the perfect balance.
The sauce is built on a foundation of single cream (or light cream, depending on your region), which provides silkiness without the heaviness of double cream or cheese-based sauces. By incorporating lemon zest and a touch of pasta water, the sauce stays bright, fresh, and velvety smooth without being overly rich.
The key is to let the quality of the ingredients shine. A gentle cream base is all that’s needed to unite the savory salmon, sweet peas, and aromatic lemon.
Versatility: Make It Your Own
Another great feature of this dish is its adaptability. It’s a forgiving recipe, which makes it ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs alike.
Want to go gluten-free? Simply swap the tagliatelle with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Prefer a dairy-free version? Use oat cream or almond-based cream alternatives and skip any garnish that contains dairy. Need more greens? Toss in some spinach, asparagus tips, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
You can also change up the protein. While hot smoked salmon is the hero in the traditional version, feel free to use grilled salmon, canned salmon, or even smoked trout for a variation. Each offers a slightly different texture and flavor that still pairs beautifully with peas and cream.
For those avoiding fish, a vegetarian version can easily be made by substituting the salmon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for that umami punch.
Tips for Getting It Just Right
Here are a few helpful tips for nailing this recipe every time:
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Use the reserved pasta water: The starchy water not only helps loosen the sauce but also ensures it clings perfectly to the pasta strands.
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Don’t overcook the peas: Add them in the last few minutes of boiling the pasta to preserve their color, texture, and flavor.
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Flake the salmon gently: You want bite-sized pieces that retain their shape without disintegrating into the sauce.
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Zest first, then juice: Always zest your lemon before slicing it. The zest adds the aromatic citrus oils that bring the sauce to life.
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Serve immediately: Creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is silky and luscious.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Though easy enough for a Wednesday night, this pasta dish is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Its vibrant presentation—rosy salmon, bright green peas, golden cream sauce—makes it look as good as it tastes.
Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and perhaps a side salad or warm crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
It’s also a fantastic choice for meal prep. It reheats well (just add a splash of milk or water), and the flavors often deepen overnight, making for delicious leftovers.
Conclusion: A New Weeknight Favorite
Pasta with salmon and peas is everything a great recipe should be—quick, simple, nutritious, and delicious. It honors classic flavor combinations while remaining adaptable for modern tastes and dietary needs. Its short ingredient list and fast cook time belie a dish that tastes like it came from a professional kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. It’s wholesome comfort food with a touch of elegance, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless favorite.
Looking to elevate your home cooking with minimal effort? Give this creamy salmon and pea pasta a try—you might just find your new go-to dinner.
