The aroma of Smoked Salmon Carbonara wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm, inviting embrace. Picture creamy pasta adorned with tender pieces of smoked salmon, creating a delightful marriage of flavors that dances on your palate.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table with friends or family, laughter echoing as you share stories over this luxurious yet comforting dish. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want to indulge without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Smoked Salmon Carbonara is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile combines smoky, creamy, and savory elements that are utterly irresistible
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress at any dinner party
- Versatile enough for a casual meal or special occasion, you can enjoy it any time
This dish has become a family favorite—my cousin proclaimed it “the best carbonara ever” at our last get-together!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality spaghetti; it holds the sauce beautifully and provides the perfect texture.
- Smoked Salmon: Choose good-quality smoked salmon for an authentic flavor; avoid overly processed varieties.
- Eggs: Use large eggs; they create a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor; pre-grated cheese lacks depth.
- Cream: Heavy cream adds richness; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor; don’t skimp on this!
- Chives or Parsley: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness; they brighten up the 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 spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Create the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and freshly cracked black pepper for additional flavor.
Add Smoked Salmon: Once drained, return spaghetti to the pot over low heat. Gently fold in the smoked salmon pieces so they warm through without cooking further.
Combine Everything Together: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the warm pasta while stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Serve with Flair!: Plate your Smoked Salmon Carbonara, garnishing with fresh chives or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy immediately while still warm!
With every bite of this Smoked Salmon Carbonara, you’re bound to experience pure joy as flavors meld together in harmonious perfection!
You Must Know
- Smoked Salmon Carbonara brings a gourmet touch to your table
- This dish combines creamy pasta with smoky flavors, creating a delightful experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated
- Don’t forget to balance the rich flavors with a squeeze of lemon for brightness!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then prepare your sauce while it cooks. Toss the hot pasta with the sauce immediately for perfect creaminess.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap smoked salmon for cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms. Adding capers or fresh dill can also elevate your carbonara’s flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore its luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality smoked salmon for a richer flavor; fresh pasta cooks faster than dried, so adjust cooking times accordingly
- A splash of reserved pasta water can help achieve the perfect sauce consistency
Sharing my first attempt at Smoked Salmon Carbonara always brings back memories of friends raving about this dish at dinner parties, making me feel like a culinary superstar.
FAQ
Can I use other types of fish in Smoked Salmon Carbonara?
Yes, you can substitute smoked trout or even canned tuna for variety.
What can I serve with Smoked Salmon Carbonara?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this rich pasta dish.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Make sure to remove the pan from heat before adding eggs and cheese slowly.

Smoked Salmon Carbonara
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Smoked Salmon Carbonara is a luxurious yet comforting dish that brings together creamy pasta and tender, smoky salmon. Perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings, this quick and easy recipe will impress your family and friends alike. With its rich flavor profile and stunning presentation, it’s a dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Indulge in this delightful experience where every bite harmonizes beautifully on your palate.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz smoked salmon, cut into pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped chives or parsley
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and black pepper.
- Return spaghetti to the pot over low heat and gently fold in smoked salmon.
- Quickly pour egg mixture over pasta, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce; add reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Plate the carbonara, garnishing with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Feel free to swap smoked salmon with cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for variation. Adding capers or fresh dill can elevate the flavor profile of your carbonara.