Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) salt
  • 1 can (6 oz / 170g) canned salmon, drained and flaked
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves (15g) garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) red pepper flakes
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup (10g) fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) reserved pasta water

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook for 1 minute less than the package directions. Note: This ensures it finishes cooking in the sauce.
  2. Before draining, scoop out 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the drained salmon flakes, spreading them out to sear undisturbed for 2-3 mins until golden brown and sizzling.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and soft.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest.
  7. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet.
  8. Pour in the reserved pasta water and grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Toss vigorously with tongs for 60 seconds until the liquid reduces into a glossy sauce that coats the noodles.
  10. Fold in the fresh parsley just before serving.