Orzo Pasta Salad with Salmon

This cold orzo pasta salad with salmon is an incredible summer dish. It's an easy and healthy lunch or dinner with a light lemony dressing.

I think orzo might be my favourite type of pasta.

I know that sounds extreme but it's the perfect addition to salads like this. It's light enough for the salad to still feel like a salad but it adds that carbyness that I need to still feel full and satisfied.

In this salad I went pretty light on the orzo and bulked it out with plenty of peppery rocket (arugula) which makes it perfect for a light summer dinner.

This whole recipe needs just 6 ingredients which makes your weeknight cooking or lunchtime meal prep a complete dream and even better, they're all store cupboard ingredients apart from the rocket so you can keep them all on hand.

If you're looking for more ideas of ways to use orzo then make sure to try this creamy chicken orzo one pot!

Why we love this orzo pasta salad with salmon

This recipe takes just 15 minutes and 6 ingredients to put together so it's ideal for a simple summer dinner

It's so easy to make this recipe and as long as you can boil pasta you can make this salad

You can also use tinned salmon to make it which means you can keep the ingredients on hand whenever you need them

It's also dairy free and easy to make gluten free so it's great for serving up to all the family

Orzo Pasta Salad with Salmon Ingredients

Salmon: For this recipe I went with tinned skinless and boneless salmon but you could also cook a salmon fillet or two and use them or this recipe is great for using up any leftover salmon

Lemon: You need the juice and zest for this super lemony salad

Olive Oil

Chilli Flakes: You can use as much or as little as you like but I think they add a lovely little hit of spice

Orzo: Cooked according to packet instructions, I like to run it under cold water until it's cooled and they you can use it straight away

Rocket: Adds a delicious pepperiness to the whole salad

How to make orzo pasta salad with salmon

1. Cook the orzo: In boiling water according to packet instructions
2. Make the dressing: Whisk together the lemon juice and zest, chilli flakes and olive oil then season well
3. Finish the salad: Toss the orzo with the salmon, rocket and dressing then serve

Expert tips for making this orzo pasta salad

Once the orzo is cooked run it under cold water until it's cooled then you can toss it with the rest of the ingredients to make the salad

To make this recipe gluten free simply switch the orzo for your favourite gluten free orzo or another cut of pasta

If you want to add extra vegetables to this salad then there's plenty that will work. Grilled asparagus or spinach would be delicious

Want more? Try these other pasta salad recipes!

• Cowboy Macaroni Salad
• Tuna Pasta Salad with Feta & Pine Nuts
• Lemon Basil Orzo & Vegetables
• Smoked Mackerel Pasta Salad with Asparagus
• Cold Peanut Noodle Salad
• Balsamic Pasta Salad
• Roasted Tomato Pasta Salad

Recipe

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