Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The rich, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with the crunchy asparagus and perfectly cooked pasta, all brought together by a simple yet flavorful dressing. The salad is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it cold for a light lunch or warm as a cozy dinner, this salad is versatile, easy to make, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (about 4-6 oz each)

• 8 oz pasta (penne, farfalle, or rotini work well)

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

3. Bring a small pot of water to a boil and blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes, until just tender but still crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

5. Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl with the pasta and vegetables.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

7. If desired, sprinkle with fresh dill before serving.

8. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• For a different protein, you can swap the salmon for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

• Add more vegetables like avocado, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

• For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing mixture.

• For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds on top before serving.

• You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer to serve it warm, you can gently heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, but the asparagus may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?

Yes, you can use canned salmon as a substitute for fresh salmon. Just be sure to drain and flake the salmon before adding it to the salad.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or a different shape like fusilli or rotini.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, arugula, roasted red peppers, or cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.

4. How do I make this salad ahead of time?

You can make this salad ahead of time by prepping the ingredients (salmon, pasta, asparagus, and vegetables) and storing them separately. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving.

5. Can I make this salad creamy?

Yes, you can add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, or a little bit of cream cheese to the dressing for a creamier version of this salad.

6. Can I make this recipe without the asparagus?

Yes, you can omit the asparagus or substitute it with another vegetable, such as green beans, peas, or roasted zucchini.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

8. Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, you can add crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or Parmesan for an extra savory flavor.

9. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add a kick of heat, you can add red pepper flakes, a sliced jalapeño, or a bit of hot sauce to the dressing.

10. Can I serve this salad warm?

Yes, this salad can be served warm if you prefer. Just reheat the pasta and salmon before assembling the salad, and add the dressing while everything is still warm.

Conclusion

Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad is a flavorful, light, and nutritious dish that combines tender salmon, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed together in a simple lemon dressing. It’s a great option for a quick and healthy meal, and it can be enjoyed warm or cold. With its versatility and fresh ingredients, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing dish to bring to your next gathering. Enjoy the balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors with this delicious and easy-to-make recipe!