Summertime calls for refreshing meals that are light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the essence of summer, then this Cold Salmon Pasta Salad recipe is a must-try. Combining the delicate taste of salmon with the freshness of crisp vegetables and tangy dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of savory and cool flavors to enjoy on a warm day.
Recipe: Cold Salmon Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz of farfalle pasta
– 1 lb of fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons of capers
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Once the salmon is cool enough to handle, break it into small bite-sized pieces using a fork. Add the salmon pieces to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, chopped dill, and capers to the bowl with the pasta and salmon.
5. In a small jar, combine the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Close the jar with a lid and shake vigorously to emulsify the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until well coated.
7. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You can also squeeze more lemon juice if you want a brighter flavor.
8. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and chill.
Serve the Cold Salmon Pasta Salad chilled as a light meal on its own or as a side dish at your next summer gathering. The combination of tender salmon, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing creates a delightful harmony of tastes that will be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the cool and satisfying flavors of this salad that embodies the essence of summer in every bite.
