Description
For the Salad
8 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
1 cup cooked salmon, flaked
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, flaked salmon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cooking Time: 10 minutes, Total Time: 20 minutes, Kcal: 350 per serving, Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pasta salad every time. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini or bowtie pasta and cook for the time specified on the package, aiming for an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly. While the pasta cools, prepare your dressing. In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and dried oregano until the mixture is fully emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Next, in a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, flaked salmon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is lightly coated in the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect as a light main course for lunch or a substantial side dish at a summer barbecue or potluck. For a complete meal, serve it on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach to add extra greens. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of iced tea. For presentation, garnish with extra crumbled feta, a sprinkle of parsley, and a lemon wedge on the side.
How-to Summary
To summarize: cook and cool the pasta, whisk the dressing, combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and either serve immediately or chill briefly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Short, sturdy pastas like fusilli, penne, or farfalle work well as they hold the dressing and ingredients.
How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator? Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb more dressing over time, so you might want to refresh it with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Can I use canned salmon? Yes, well-drained canned salmon is a convenient and affordable alternative to freshly cooked salmon.
Is there a substitute for the honey in the dressing? You can use maple syrup or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if you prefer.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients and dressing separately, but for the best texture, combine them no more than an hour before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Always rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Do not skip the step of whisking the dressing vigorously; proper emulsification ensures the flavors are evenly distributed. When combining the salad, be gentle to keep the salmon flakes intact and prevent the feta from completely dissolving. Finally, do not overdress the salad; start with three-quarters of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed.
Conclusion
This Salmon Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors that come together in just 20 minutes. It’s a reliably delicious, nutritious, and satisfying dish that is as perfect for a quick family dinner as it is for entertaining guests. With its simple preparation and flexible ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the vibrant combination of textures and tastes in every bite.
