This Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a light meal or side. Tender orzo, creamy dressing, crisp cucumbers, and smoky salmon come together in a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. A great option for quick high-protein meals, healthy recipes for dinner, and simple high-protein meals. Whether you’re looking for recipes to try or easy recipes for appetizers and snacks, this pasta salad is a delicious choice
Dressing:
1/2 cup (120g) full-fat mayo
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 heaped tbsp fresh chives, finely diced
1 heaped tbsp fresh dill, finely diced
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1/8 tsp salt (or to taste)
Pasta Salad:
1 bagel, sliced into semi-circles
10.5oz (300g) uncooked orzo
7oz (200g) smoked salmon, roughly torn/sliced
5.3oz (150g) cucumber, sliced into small pieces
2 1/2 tbsp capers
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
Olive oil or oil spray (for croutons)
Make the Croutons: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Place bagel pieces on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
Cook the Orzo: Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cool. Shake well to remove excess water.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix all dressing ingredients until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled orzo, cucumber, capers, red onion, and dressing. Stir in croutons and smoked salmon until evenly distributed.
Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy!
This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
You can add more vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and Dijon mustard for a tangier or milder dressing based on your preference.