This Smoked Salmon Carbonara is a fun twist on the classic! With creamy sauce, tender pasta, and tasty pieces of smoked salmon, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.
Who knew carbonara could be so fancy yet easy? I love how the smokiness of the salmon adds a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s ready in a flash, perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Use spaghetti or bucatini for a classic feel. If you want a twist, try fettuccine or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option!
Eggs: I love using fresh eggs for this recipe! If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, you can try silken tofu blended until smooth.
Smoked Salmon: Can’t find smoked salmon? Feel free to swap it with cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a different taste while still getting that protein kick!
Pancetta or Bacon: If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or even a smoky plant-based alternative works well. Just make sure to cook it until nice and crispy!
Parmesan: Grated Parmesan gives that rich flavor, but Pecorino Romano is another great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Egg Mixture Doesn’t Scramble?
A common challenge in making carbonara is keeping the egg mixture smooth. Here’s how to do it:
- Work quickly! Add the egg mixture to the pasta right after draining, while everything is still hot. This helps cook the eggs gently.
- Constantly toss the pasta as you add the egg mix. Use a fork or tongs to keep the eggs moving so they don’t stick to the pasta.
- That’s where the reserved pasta water comes in. Add it slowly to achieve the desired creaminess without scrambling the eggs. Aim for a silky sauce!
These tips will help you achieve a delicious and creamy carbonara every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Smoked Salmon Carbonara
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or bucatini pasta
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 large whole egg
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 oz (170 g) smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz (115 g) pancetta or bacon, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach or arugula leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Smoked Salmon Carbonara can be prepared in about 15 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option. Cook the pasta, whisk the eggs, and mix everything together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the spaghetti or bucatini according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all well combined and smooth. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Cook the Pancetta:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or bacon and cook until it’s nice and crisp, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell its delicious aroma. After that, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Combine Pasta and Pancetta:
Now, add the hot, drained pasta directly into the skillet with the cooked pancetta and garlic. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful oil and crispy pancetta.
5. Mix in the Egg Mixture:
Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, making sure to toss quickly and continuously to coat the pasta without scrambling the eggs. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you reach a creamy consistency.
6. Add the Smoked Salmon:
Gently fold in the bite-sized pieces of smoked salmon and the optional spinach or arugula. Cook on low heat just until the greens are slightly wilted and the salmon is warmed through—about 1-2 minutes will do.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately on plates, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your luscious and smoky twist on classic carbonara with this tasty Smoked Salmon Carbonara!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and bucatini are classic choices, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist!
Is There a Substitute for Pancetta or Bacon?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon can be used. Just ensure it’s cooked until crispy to achieve a similar texture and flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Certainly! You can replace the eggs with silken tofu blended until smooth for a creamy texture. Just mix it with some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!