Bow Tie Pasta With Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe

Welcome to my recipe for Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese! This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, or for impressing guests at a dinner party. As a chef, I always strive to create recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. This recipe is no exception – with just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

If you’re a fan of smoked salmon, you’re going to love this dish. The salty and savory flavor of the salmon pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cream cheese, and the fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous note. When combined with the tender bow tie pasta, this dish becomes a true delight for the senses.

As a chef, I know that time is often of the essence in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve created a recipe that is both quick and easy to prepare, without sacrificing any flavor or quality. So, whether you’re in a hurry or looking to impress, this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is perfect for you. So, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that is both indulgent and easy to make, you’ll love this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe. This recipe is perfect for those who want to impress their guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal with their family.

Firstly, the combination of smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill creates a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The cream cheese adds a creamy texture to the dish, making it even more satisfying. The red onion adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, adding to the overall complexity of the dish.

Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Simply cook the pasta according to the instructions, mix the cream cheese and smoked salmon together, and then combine all the ingredients together. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a mouth-watering dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant.

Thirdly, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking. You can substitute the bow tie pasta with other types of pasta, such as farfalle pasta or penne pasta. You can also add other ingredients such as zucchini, peas, or leftover salmon to make the dish even more unique.

Lastly, this recipe can be served as a main dish or a side dish. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or a glass of white wine. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick and easy lunch the next day.

In conclusion, this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent and flavorful dishes that are easy to make. With its perfect balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.

Ingredient List

Let’s dive into the ingredients for this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need:

12 ounces of farfalle pasta (also known as bow tie pasta)
2 ounces of thinly sliced smoked salmon
1 small red onion, quartered thinly sliced
2 ounces of cream cheese, cut small
2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of capers
1 tablespoon of fresh dill, finely chopped
Salt and ground pepper (to taste)

For the pasta sauce, you will need:

1/4 cup of unsalted butter
1/3 cup of heavy cream
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and ground pepper (to taste)

All the ingredients can be easily found in your local grocery store, and it’s possible that you already have some of them in your fridge or pantry. The combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese results in a rich and delicious pasta dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.

The Recipe How-To

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Firstly, I fill a pot with water and add 1 tbsp of salt to it. I bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water starts boiling, I add 12 ounces of farfalle (bow-tie pasta) and cook it for 10-12 minutes until it is al dente. I drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce

While the pasta is cooking, I prepare the creamy smoked salmon sauce. In a pan, I heat 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Then, I add 1 small thinly sliced red onion and 2 ounces of capers. I cook them for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent. Next, I add 6 oz of smoked salmon that I have cut into small pieces and 1 tbsp of fresh dill that I have finely chopped. I cook them for 2-3 minutes until the salmon is heated through. Finally, I add 4 cups (12 oz) of cream cheese that I have cut into small pieces. I stir the mixture until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the pasta and sauce

After the sauce is ready, I add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir it until the pasta is coated with the sauce. I season the pasta with 1/4 tsp of ground black pepper and 1/4 tsp of coarse salt. I mix everything well and cook it for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is heated through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, I serve the pasta in bowls and garnish it with some fresh dill and smoked salmon. This pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this bow tie pasta with smoked salmon and cream cheese recipe is that you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

– Instead of smoked salmon, try using leftover grilled or baked salmon fillet. You can also use canned salmon, though the texture will be different.

– Capers add a briny, salty flavor that complements the smoked salmon and cream cheese, but if you’re not a fan, you can omit them or try substituting with chopped green olives.

– Fresh dill is a classic pairing with smoked salmon, but you can use other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil. You can also use dried herbs if you don’t have fresh on hand.

– Red onion adds a bit of crunch and tangy bite, but if you prefer a milder onion flavor, try using sliced shallots or scallions instead.

– If you don’t have bow tie pasta (also known as farfalle), you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini. Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta can also be used in place of traditional wheat pasta.

– For a vegetarian version of this dish, omit the smoked salmon and add some sautéed zucchini, peas, or asparagus. You can also try adding some roasted cherry tomatoes or red bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

– To make this dish even creamier, try adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like grated Parmesan or crumbled feta.

– If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, try using reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat cream cheese. You can also add some steamed broccoli or spinach to the pasta for added nutrients.

Overall, this recipe is very adaptable and can be customized to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own!

Serving and Pairing

This delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet night in or a dinner party with friends. The creamy smoked salmon sauce is rich and flavorful, and is perfectly complemented by the tender bow tie pasta.

To take this dish to the next level, try serving it with a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic bread. The light and crisp salad will balance out the richness of the pasta, while the garlic bread will add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creaminess of the sauce.

For a more formal occasion, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. The light and fruity notes of the wine will complement the delicate smoked salmon flavor in the dish, while the acidity will cut through the richness of the cream cheese sauce.

Overall, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks depending on your preferences. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect pairing!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is a great choice for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later consumption. If you plan on making this dish in advance, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the cream cheese sauce and store it in a separate container in the fridge.

To reheat the pasta, simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through. In a separate pan, warm up the cream cheese sauce, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.

This dish is also great for leftovers. You can store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply follow the instructions for reheating the pasta and sauce.

If you want to jazz up your leftover pasta, try adding some sautéed zucchini or peas for some extra veggies. You can also flake some leftover salmon fillet and add it to the pasta for a different twist on the dish.

Overall, this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is a versatile dish that can be easily stored and reheated for later consumption.

Tips for Perfect Results

Here are some tips to ensure that your Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese comes out perfectly every time.

First, make sure to cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions and then drain it well. You don’t want the pasta to be too soft or too hard. Cooking the pasta al dente is the best way to go as it will help the pasta hold its shape and texture when you combine it with the sauce and other ingredients.

Another important tip is to use high-quality ingredients. Since the recipe only has a few ingredients, it’s essential to use the best you can get. Fresh dill, smoked salmon, and cream cheese are the stars of this recipe, so don’t skimp on them.

When it comes to the cream cheese, make sure it’s at room temperature before you start cooking. This will ensure that it mixes well with the other ingredients and creates a smooth sauce.

If you’re using smoked salmon that is particularly salty, make sure to taste the sauce before adding any salt. You may find that you don’t need to add any salt at all. However, if you do need to add some, use it sparingly as the smoked salmon and capers are already salty.

You can also add some extra flavor to the dish by using red onions that have been caramelized. Simply cook thinly sliced red onions in a little bit of olive oil over low heat until they are soft and golden brown. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish that complements the smoky salmon and creamy sauce.

Finally, remember to garnish the dish with some fresh dill, capers, and thinly sliced smoked salmon. These toppings will not only make the dish look beautiful but also add some extra flavor and texture to the pasta.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create a fantastic Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a quick and easy pasta recipe that’s packed with flavor, then this Bow Tie Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Recipe is definitely worth a try. With its creamy, tangy sauce and tender, smoky salmon, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to make in just 15 minutes, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, with so many variations and substitutions available, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and preferences.

So why not give this delicious pasta recipe a try tonight? I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed. And who knows, it may even become your new go-to dish for any occasion!