Salmon Pasta Salad
This delightful and vibrant Salmon Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for those warm summer days when you need a refreshing and satisfying meal. Not only does it offer a burst of flavors with fresh ingredients like juicy tomatoes, crisp red onion, and the richness of salmon, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a simple make-ahead lunch or a main dish for a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. It’s a breeze to throw together and can be prepped ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy days. Serve it over a bed of crisp lettuce for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rotini pasta | 8 oz |
| Bow tie pasta | 2 oz |
| Salmon (cooked, flaked) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Grape tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Dill weed | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Iceberg lettuce (chopped) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 331.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 305.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 3.1 g |
| Protein | 6.3 g |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Total Time | 32 minutes |
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling both the rotini and bow tie pasta in a large pot of salted water. Follow the package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Salmon: While the pasta is cooling, take your cooked salmon (you can use leftover salmon or canned salmon for ease) and flake it into bite-sized pieces.
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Mix the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, flaked salmon, halved grape tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Toss them together gently to combine.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing by combining olive oil, lemon juice, dill, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the mixture is well-blended.
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Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and salmon mixture. Toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
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Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This step enhances the flavors, so be sure not to skip it!
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Serve: Before serving, create a bed of chopped iceberg lettuce on each plate. Serve the chilled salmon pasta salad on top of the lettuce. Garnish with extra dill if desired for an added touch of freshness.
Tips for a Perfect Salad
- Customize the Salad: Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for more crunch and color.
- Add Some Crunch: For an extra burst of texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top of the salad just before serving.
- Protein Variations: If you don’t have salmon on hand, grilled chicken or tuna can be used as great alternatives.
- Make Ahead: This salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let the flavors develop overnight.
Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Salmon Pasta Salad as a delightful main dish or a side at your next gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is both healthy and packed with vibrant flavors!
