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Cold Salmon Pasta Salad with Lemon & Dill Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 4 reviews
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cold Salmon Pasta Salad with Lemon & Dill is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or light meals. Combining tender, flaky salmon with al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon-dill dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of protein, fresh herbs, and bright citrus notes. Ideal for picnics, lunches, or as a side, it is easy to prepare ahead and serve chilled for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 8 oz cooked salmon, flaked

Pasta

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli), cooled

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook and Cool Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta completely. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: If not already cooked, bake or poach the salmon until just cooked through, then flake into bite-sized pieces, removing skin and bones.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, flaked salmon, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped dill. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and for the salad to be served cold.
  6. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with additional fresh dill or lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • Use leftover cooked salmon or canned salmon as a convenient substitute.
  • For gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
  • Add capers or olives for extra briny flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste preference.
  • Make sure to drain the pasta well after rinsing to prevent a watery salad.

Find it online: https://cookedbylina.com/cold-salmon-pasta-salad-with-lemon-and-dill-recipe/