Creamy Salmon and Pasta Salad

Dive into a bowl of luscious flavor with this Creamy Salmon and Pasta Salad, a perfect fusion of tender penne pasta, delicate flaked salmon, and crisp garden veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and baby spinach. Tossed in a silky dressing made with tangy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon juice, and a hint of Dijon mustard, this dish is packed with freshness and bright, herby notes from dill. The golden sear on the salmon fillets adds a savory depth, while the chopped red onion provides just the right amount of crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this versatile recipe is ideal as a light lunch, a picnic favorite, or a show-stopping potluck dish. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, satisfying meal that celebrates bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 300 grams Penne pasta
• 2 pieces Salmon fillet
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 120 grams Mayonnaise
• 120 grams Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Dill
• 0.5 cup (finely chopped) Red onion
• 1 cup (halved) Cherry tomatoes
• 1 medium (diced) Cucumber
• 2 cups Baby spinach

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin if necessary.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining pepper. Stir in the fresh dill.

Step 5

Add the cooked pasta, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and baby spinach into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine.

Step 6

Carefully fold the flaked salmon into the salad, trying not to break it up too much.

Step 7

Taste for seasoning, and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 8

Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately if desired.

Step 9

Serve cold or at room temperature as a main dish or side. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1362.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3010.6

Total Fat 157.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 22.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 15.5g
Cholesterol 307.9mg	0%
Sodium 3650.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 275.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.1g	0%
Total Sugars 14.7g
Protein 119.7g	0%

Vitamin D 1479.6IU	0%
Calcium 264.6mg	0%
Iron 16.0mg	0%
Potassium 2799.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.3%

Protein: 16.0%

Carbs: 36.7%