Description
A refreshing and light Salmon Pasta Salad combining tender rotini pasta, fresh baby spinach, crisp cucumber, and flavorful cooked salmon, all tossed in a zesty lemon dill vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz. rotini pasta (cooked and drained)
- 1/2 English cucumber (sliced)
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/8 cup fresh dill (chopped)
- Fresh lemon juice and/or zest (to taste)
- 8 oz. cooked salmon
Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare pasta and vegetables: Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and allow to cool completely. Slice the English cucumber and wash baby spinach leaves thoroughly.
- Toss salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced cucumber, baby spinach, chopped fresh dill, and fresh lemon juice and/or zest. Toss gently to mix all the flavors.
- Add salmon and vinaigrette: Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and gently place it on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the homemade lemon dill vinaigrette over the salad, then toss lightly to combine without breaking up the salmon too much.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes for a cooler salad experience.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked salmon or canned salmon as convenient alternatives for quicker preparation.
- The lemon dill vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this salad gluten-free.
- This salad is best enjoyed the day it is made to maintain freshness, especially the salad greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
