Quick & Easy Smoked Salmon Linguine in Lemon Cream Sauce – Salmon Dinner Recipe

Introduction:

When you want a dinner that feels elegant but takes almost no time to make, this Quick & Easy Smoked Salmon Linguine in Lemon Cream Sauce hits the spot. It’s creamy, citrusy, savory, and comforting, everything you want in a restaurant-worthy pasta dish, without the hassle. Tender linguine is tossed in a silky lemon cream sauce and finished with delicate flakes of smoked salmon for a luxurious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy date night in, this recipe makes salmon shine in the simplest, most delicious way.

Ingredients:

For 2 Servings:

1. 6 oz linguine (or low-carb pasta alternative)
2. 1 tablespoon butter
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. ½ cup heavy cream
5. Zest and juice of ½ lemon
6. 2–3 oz smoked salmon, roughly chopped
7. 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
8. Salt and black pepper, to taste
9. Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
10. Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Optional Add-Ins:

1. Sautéed spinach or peas for a veggie boost
2. Capers for a briny kick
3. Swap linguine for zucchini noodles or shirataki for a lower-carb version
4. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the cream and lemon zest, then bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Combine & Toss

Lower the heat, add the cooked pasta to the sauce, and toss to coat. Add lemon juice and a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir in Parmesan cheese, if using.

Step 4: Add the Salmon

Gently fold in the smoked salmon and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Warm through for 1–2 minutes without overcooking the salmon.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Top with fresh herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately while creamy and hot.

Optional Variations:

• Low-Carb/Keto Option: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of pasta.
• Green Goodness: Add sautéed spinach or asparagus tips for freshness.
• Extra Rich: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for a thicker sauce.
• Crispy Touch: Top with toasted almond slivers or keto breadcrumbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy & Citrusy – A light yet luscious sauce that brightens the smoked salmon.
• Fast & Easy – Dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Flexible for Diets – Easy to make low-carb, keto, or gluten-free.
• Elegant but Effortless – Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a dinner party.
• Protein-Packed – Salmon adds healthy fats and omega-3s to keep you full.

This Smoked Salmon Linguine in Lemon Cream Sauce brings together bold flavors and rich textures with almost no prep time. Whether you’re feeding guests or just treating yourself, it’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a splurge with half the work.