Farfalle al Salmone Incantato is a captivating pasta dish that combines the rich depth of smoked salmon with the delicate appeal of bowtie pasta. This recipe turns basic ingredients into a romantic and elegant experience, serving them in a silky cream sauce that is flavored with shallots, white wine, and a hint of lemon zest. Each forkful offers the ideal balance of sea-kissed richness and Italian grace, while fresh parsley adds brightness. This meal enchants with every bite and is perfect for dinner parties or a relaxing evening at home.
Farfalle al Salmone Incantato
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Servings
4
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Calories
580
Farfalle al Salmone Incantato is a captivating pasta dish that combines the rich depth of smoked salmon with the delicate appeal of bowtie pasta. This recipe turns basic ingredients into a romantic and elegant experience, serving them in a silky cream sauce that is flavored with shallots, white wine, and a hint of lemon zest. Each forkful offers the ideal balance of sea-kissed richness and Italian grace, while fresh parsley adds brightness. This meal enchants with every bite and is perfect for dinner parties or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients
-
400g (14 oz) farfalle pasta
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200g (7 oz) smoked salmon, sliced into thin strips
200ml (7 fl oz) heavy cream (or cooking cream)
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (or ½ onion)
-
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
-
50ml (3 tablespoons) dry white wine
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Zest of ½ a lemon (optional, for brightness)
Directions
Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle and cook until al dente (check package instructions, usually 10–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce Base
While the pasta is cooking:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Add the salmon strips and sauté gently for 1–2 minutes (do not overcook, or it will dry out).
Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and let it cook off for about 2 minutes, stirring gently.
Add Cream and Simmer
Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Stir in the cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Add black pepper and adjust salt (go easy—smoked salmon is naturally salty).
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss to coat, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Optional: Add lemon zest for a fresh twist.
Serve
Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.