Penne with salmon and Philadelphia is a creamy and irresistible main dish, perfect for those looking for taste and simplicity in the kitchen. The delicacy of the salmon combines with the softness of Philadelphia cheese, creating an enveloping sauce that wins over at the first taste.
It’s an easy and quick recipe to prepare, ideal for both a family lunch and a last-minute dinner. It resembles the classic tagliatelle with salmon and cream, but with a fresher and lighter touch, thanks to the spreadable cheese that adds creaminess without being heavy. A dish within everyone’s reach, capable of bringing great results to the table with just a few simple steps.
Now take a minute to read the recipe and then…let’s COOK and let’s EAT!!
See also
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 4
- Cooking methods: Stove
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients
- 11.3 oz penne rigate
- 7 oz smoked salmon
- 5.3 spreadable cheese (Philadelphia)
- 1 knob butter
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion (or shallot)
- to taste parsley (freshly chopped)
Tools
- 1 Knife
- 1 Chopping Board
- 1 Frying Pan
- 1 Pot
- 1 Slotted Spoon
- 1 Wooden Spoon
Steps
Penne with salmon and Philadelphia is the classic dish that is really prepared in a few minutes, with the sauce cooking in the same time as the pasta
First, bring the salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta and, in the meantime, focus on the sauce.
Peel, wash, and thinly slice the onion and sauté it in a pan with a drizzle of oil and a knob of butter. The onion should soften without burning.
At this point, cut the smoked salmon into strips and place it in the pan with the onion and sauté for a few minutes so that it absorbs the flavors, being careful not to dry it out.
Finally, add the Philadelphia spreadable cheese and a ladle of pasta cooking water. Stir until you have a smooth cream.
As soon as the pasta is cooked (al dente), transfer it with a slotted spoon into the pan and toss it with the sauce, adding a little more pasta cooking water if necessary.
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Of course! Fresh salmon will provide a more delicate flavor and a more fleshy texture. In this case, cut it into small cubes and sauté in the pan with a drizzle of oil or a knob of butter for 3-4 minutes before adding the Philadelphia. Remember to lightly salt the fish, as fresh salmon is not as salty as smoked.
The cream is too thick, how can I fix it?
The secret for perfect creaminess is pasta cooking water. Philadelphia tends to set quickly: before draining the pasta, save a ladle of boiling water and add it gradually while tossing the pasta in the pan with the sauce. The starch contained in the water will create a perfect emulsion.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
It’s not recommended. This recipe is at its best when prepared and served immediately.
What type of pasta is most suitable?
Ridged penne is ideal because they capture the cream both inside and in the external grooves.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
To counteract the sweetness of Philadelphia, you can add: a grated lemon zest at the end (for freshness), a handful of chopped pistachios (for crunchiness)
