Ingredients
Pasta
- 250 g (8.8 oz) pasta
Sauce
- 30 g (1 ounce) unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 75 ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
- 200 ml (1 cup) crème fraîche
- Juice of one lemon
Add-ins
- 150 g (1 cup) frozen peas
- 180 g (6.3 oz) hot smoked salmon, flaked
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, roughly chopped
Seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, season generously with salt, and cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Blanch Peas: Bring another small pot of water to a boil and add the frozen peas. Boil for 1 minute, drain, and immediately transfer the peas to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- Sauté Shallot: Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
- Add Stock and Crème Fraîche Sauce: Pour the chicken stock into the pan with the shallots and cook until the stock reduces slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the crème fraîche and lemon juice to create a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce appears too thick or dry, adjusting the consistency as needed.
- Add Peas, Salmon, and Dill: Gently fold in the blanched peas, flaked hot smoked salmon, and chopped fresh dill. Stir carefully to combine without breaking up the delicate salmon.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use good quality hot smoked salmon for best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- For a vegetarian version, omit salmon and add extra peas or mushrooms.
- The lemon juice adds brightness; adjust to taste if preferred less tangy.
- This dish is best served immediately as the salmon can become dry if reheated.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British