Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta: A Quick & Delicious Dinner Solution

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like sitting down to a bowl of Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta that took minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. This elegant yet simple dish combines the earthy sweetness of broad beans with flaky salmon and a silky, lemony sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. The first time I made this Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta, I was amazed at how such basic ingredients transformed into something restaurant-worthy in under 30 minutes.

The aroma of fresh basil and zesty lemon fills your kitchen as you prepare this easy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—tender pasta, creamy sauce, and the gentle pop of broad beans. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a hectic workday or serving a spontaneous dinner for friends, this healthy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta

• ✅ Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta ready in just 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
• ✅ Healthy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein
• ✅ Easy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta recipe requiring just 5 main ingredients
• ✅ Budget-friendly Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta using canned salmon and frozen beans
• ✅ Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta with lemon offers a light, refreshing flavor profile
• ✅ Perfect Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta for meal prep – tastes great the next day

Ingredients for Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta

To make this delicious Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta, you’ll need these simple ingredients:

• 325g frozen baby broad beans
• 300g spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 150g low-fat cottage cheese
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 15g fresh basil, leaves picked
• 212g tin pink salmon, flaked with skin and bones removed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced (for Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta with garlic)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Pasta: While spaghetti works beautifully, you can use any pasta shape for this Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta – penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well.
• Salmon: Fresh cooked salmon can replace canned for a more luxurious Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta for dinner.
• Cheese: Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can substitute for cottage cheese if preferred.
• Herbs: Dill or mint make excellent alternatives to basil in this Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta with herbs.
• Beans: If broad beans aren’t available, try peas or edamame for similar texture and nutrition.

How to Make Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the frozen broad beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
3. Drain the beans and immediately place them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. For younger, more tender beans, you can skip the next step, but for the best Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta, I recommend removing the outer skins.
5. Gently squeeze each bean to pop it out of its outer skin, revealing the bright green bean inside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
3. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
4. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it – the starch helps the sauce cling better.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. While the pasta cooks, place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the lemon juice and most of the basil leaves (save some for garnish).
3. If using garlic for Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta with garlic, add it now.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Your Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta

1. Return the drained pasta to its pot over low heat.
2. Add the creamy sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
3. Gently fold in the prepared broad beans and flaked salmon.
4. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Toss everything together gently to avoid breaking up the salmon too much.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide the Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta between warmed plates.
2. Garnish with the remaining basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and a crack of black pepper.
3. For added brightness, add a little extra lemon zest on top.
4. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the broad beans: They should remain bright green and slightly firm for the perfect texture in your Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta.
• Salt your pasta water generously: It should taste like sea water to properly season the pasta itself.
• Room temperature cottage cheese blends more smoothly than cold cheese straight from the refrigerator.
• For the creamiest sauce, use a high-powered blender rather than just stirring the ingredients together.
• Make ahead tip: You can prepare the beans and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance for an even quicker Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta for meal prep.
• For a richer version, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the warm pasta before adding the sauce.

Best Ways

This versatile Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta comfort food can be enjoyed in several ways:

• Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal
• Pair with garlic bread or crusty sourdough for a more substantial dinner
• For an elegant presentation, serve smaller portions as a starter at your next dinner party
• Add a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the lemony notes in the dish

Nutritional Information

This healthy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced:

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
• Protein: 28g per serving (excellent source)
• Carbohydrates: 62g per serving
• Fat: 9g per serving (mostly healthy omega-3 fatty acids from salmon)
• Fiber: 8g per serving
• Sodium: 360mg per serving

Storage & Leftovers

This Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta keeps well, making it perfect for planned leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheating: Add a splash of water or milk and warm gently in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and sauce can deteriorate

Frequently

Can I make re  ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components separately up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the pasta and prepare the sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, warm the pasta with a splash of water, heat the sauce separately, then combine and add the salmon and beans.

Is Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta healthy?

Absolutely! This dish provides an excellent balance of protein from the salmon, complex carbohydrates from the pasta, and fiber and vitamins from the broad beans. The low-fat cottage cheese creates creaminess without excessive calories, making this a nutritious healthy Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta option.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use approximately 200g of fresh salmon, cooked and flaked, in place of canned salmon. Simply season it with salt and pepper, pan-fry or bake until just cooked through, then flake and add to your Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta.

What can I substitute for broad beans?

If broad beans aren’t available, green peas, edamame, or even asparagus pieces can work well in this recipe. Each will give your Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta variations a slightly different flavor profile but maintain the visual appeal and nutritional benefits.

Conclusion

This Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta is the definition of simple elegance – a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers restaurant-quality results. The creamy sauce, tender beans, and flaky salmon create a harmonious blend that’s perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to casual entertaining.

What I love most about this Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta is its versatility – it can be adapted based on what you have on hand, making it a reliable recipe to keep in your collection. The next time you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down, give this Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta a try. I’d love to hear what variations you come up with in the comments below!

Now that you know how to make the best Creamy Broad Bean and Salmon Pasta at home, it’s time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this simple yet sophisticated meal.

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