Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded smoked salmon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the sauce
- Whisk
- Colander for draining pasta
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Add the shredded smoked salmon and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted and the salmon is heated through.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve hot
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 610
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 840mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cavatappi pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta such as penne or fusilli.
- Smoked salmon can be substituted with cooked salmon or canned salmon.
Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the sauce for added nutrition.
- Substitute the smoked salmon with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reserve some of the pasta cooking water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the pasta and salmon to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Cavatappi pasta is a type of macaroni that originated in southern Italy.
- Smoked salmon has been a popular delicacy in Europe for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, rich, and savory with a hint of smokiness from the salmon.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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