Delicious, flaky salmon pairs with macaroni noodles and a creamy dressing in this cold salmon macaroni salad that's just perfect for packable (or at-home) lunches!
This salmon macaroni salad has been a lunch hit over here, and it's something different than the typical salad or sandwich. I came across a similar recipe in an old cookbook I have and adapted it to our tastes and allergies.
My version is basically gluten-free macaroni noodles mixed with salmon (here's an easy baked salmon recipe), fresh vegetables, and a creamy yogurt and dill dressing.
The result was something my husband and I and our two older girls loved!
It all actually comes together quick too, especially if you have the salmon on hand, making for an easy and healthy lunch.
Ingredients and substitutions
- Macaroni - You could use any pasta you like, though I would recommend something smaller. I once used penne, but chopped it into smaller pieces after cooking. We generally use a gluten-free variety as well, like that from Jovial.
- Salmon - My first choice is leftover baked salmon, but canned works just as well. I've also used canned sardines with great results! You could even use chopped chicken, if you don't like fish.
- Plain yogurt - NOT Greek yogurt
- Mayonnaise
- Carrot
- Cucumber
- Dried dill - I just use a pinch, as I'm not a huge dill fan. Tarragon would also be delicious!
How to make salmon macaroni salad
This salad is best eaten cold, though I have served it with the salmon fresh out of the oven.
Prepare your salmon using a basic recipe. Too much spice or anything added to the salmon can throw off the flavors of the salad. Simply use canned salmon to skip this step entirely.
Boil your pasta of choice. At the end of cooking, rinse it with cold water to cool it off.
Combine the ingredients for the dressing in a large bowl, then add in the cooled macaroni noodles and flaked salmon.
Toss everything gently until well coated.
Storage tips
This salad will keep in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for best taste.
Salmon Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup macaroni or pasta of choice
- 8 ounces cooked and flaked salmon skin and bones removed; or use canned salmon
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/8-1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- ¼ cup grated cucumber
- ¼ cup grated carrot
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the package directions.
- Combine yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, cucumber, carrot, and 1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper.
- Stir in the salmon and toss all with the drained and cooled pasta.
- Chill salad 1-2 hours or eat straightaway.
Notes
Nutrition
If you have a chance to try this recipe, please leave a star rating and a comment below letting me know how you liked it!
R
Delicious meal!