Are you tired of the same old boring summer meals? Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this mouthwatering Grilled Salmon Pasta Salad that promises to be the star of your next gathering! Imagine perfectly grilled salmon, al dente pasta, and a burst of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing that will transport your senses to a gourmet paradise. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a refreshing experience that combines protein, flavor, and nutrition in one stunning dish.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes, then break into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled salmon pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and additional salt and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing main course or side dish.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures your pasta stays firm and doesn't become mushy in the salad.
- Salmon Grilling Hack: Pat your salmon fillets dry before grilling to achieve a beautiful, crispy exterior. Use a fish spatula for easy flipping and to prevent breaking.
- Flavor Boost: Let the salad sit for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes!
- Temperature Matters: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste experience. Avoid serving too cold straight from the refrigerator.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or basil, or include additional vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 65mg
