One of the dishes I frequently order got to be the classic Salmon Mentaiko Pasta, a Japanese Italian fusion food. Before I dive down into how delicious each bite of this delicious pasta, let me explain what Mentaiko is. Mentaiko is pollock roe that is salted and treated before consumption. As a result, there is a very rich umami flavour, and mentaiko is sometimes made into sauces which I am using here today!

Before I elaborate further about this recipe, I would like to emphasise that this is a really straightforward cooking hack, and I took a lot of shortcuts to achieve the flavour (for example using readymade Mentaiko sauce). However, if you would like bold and authentic flavours (that can cost a bomb), this is probably not the recipe for you!

This is more of a recipe for someone who’s really busy or prefer fuss free recipes that are also affordable with decent Mentaiko flavours.

Now, here are a few key things you must know to make the perfect Salmon Mentaiko Pasta:

  1. Mentaiko Mayo / Sauce
    There are various brands available and I’ve yet to hurt of a bad one. I try to pick one that is made in Japanese as their mayo tends to be lighter with a creamier texture, and integrates well into the pasta. An additional note is to taste along the way to tell how much mentaiko mayo / sauce is good for you!
  2. Salmon and Salmon Roe
    I find that the freshness and slightly saltiness of salmon and salmon roe to go really well with this lightly creamy Mentaiko pasta. As such, these two are must-adds for me where my budget allows! If my purse strings are tighter, I will avoid the roe.
  3. Seaweed
    This is a must-have for me, especially seasoned seaweed. This adds such a nice pop of flavour that complements the mentaiko, and possibly, a light crunch too!

Apart from the above three tips, I would like to assure you that this recipe is super easy and you can do it!

Without further ado, the recipe.

Salmon Mentaiko Pasta Recipe
by Javier Tan December-16-2024

Cafe quality Salmon Mentaiko Pasta is within your grasp through these easy steps and hacks. I got mine done within an hour and so can you!

Ingredients (Serves 2, Multiply Accordingly)

  • 1 and 1/2 Cup Pasta of Choice
  • 1/3 Cup or 80ml of Cooking Cream
  • Approx 1/4 Cup or 40g of Soft Cheeses, such as Camembert
  • At least 2 Tbspns of Mentaiko Mayo / Sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garnishes (optional, I used Salmon, Salmon Roe, Seaweed and Herbs)

Instructions

  1. Firstly, boil pasta in salted water till al dente (based on packaging instructions). Drain, with just a little bit of pasta water left, and set aside to cool
  2. Then, at medium heat and using a frying pan, mix the cooking cream and cheese together until the cheese has melted.
  3. Next, stir in your mentaiko mayo / sauce and other seasonings, make sure to taste! Once you’re happy with the flavours, toss in the pasta to coat well.
  4. Serve the pasta with garnishes of your choice. I listed mine here: Salmon slices, Salmon roe, Seaweed and Herbs!

Details

  • Prep time: 20 mins
  • Cook time: 30 mins
  • Total time: 50 mins
  • Yield: 2 Servings of the most savoury Salmon Mentaiko Pasta

Notes:

  1. If you would like to be updated for more recipes which I strive to create to perfection for sharing and for free, do check out my Instagram, Facebook Page, or YouTube 🙂 Thank you so much for all of your support! Feel free to tag me or link back here!
  2. Serve warm once fully cooked, best eaten on the day itself! Else, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making sure to heat up before serving again.
  3. Please do not copy and paste the recipe without my permission, but feel free to link back here!

Enjoy!
Bakeomaniac, Javier Tan!