Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Smoked Cream Cheese Pasta


  • Author: Norah
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A luxurious pasta dish featuring penne tossed in a creamy sauce made from melted cream cheese, accented with fresh dill, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and capers. Topped with ribbons of smoked salmon, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb penne pasta

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened

  • 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped

  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced

  • 1 lemon, zest and juice

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • ¼ cup capers

  • 8 ounces smoked salmon, cut into ribbons

  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.

  • Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the pot while still steaming hot.

  • Add the softened cream cheese to the hot pasta. Toss until the cream cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.

  • Stir in the chopped dill, sliced green onions, lemon zest and juice, Dijon mustard, and capers.

  • Gently fold in the smoked salmon ribbons. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

 

  • Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese.

If you prefer a different pasta shape, bowtie or farfalle pasta works well with this sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: Smoked salmon pasta, creamy pasta, dill pasta, lemon pasta, seafood pasta