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Smoked Salmon Orzo Salad

Zesty Smoked Salmon Orzo Salad for Refreshing Summer Nights

A refreshing Smoked Salmon Orzo Salad with quick prep and fresh ingredients, perfect for summer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo substitute with gluten-free orzo if needed
  • ¼ cup red onion use green onions for a milder flavor if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons capers omit for a milder taste
  • 4 ounces sliced smoked salmon can substitute with cooked shrimp or grilled chicken
For the Creamy Dressing
  • ½ cup mayo substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard yellow mustard can be used as a substitute
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil use avocado oil for a different flavor
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice plus zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh minced garlic can provide a stronger flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill substitute with parsley for a different herbal note
  • to taste salt & pepper adjust to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Medium Bowl
  • Whisk
  • large mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the uncooked orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the orzo cools, prepare the creamy lemon dill dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, and chopped fresh dill. Whisk until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, chopped mini cucumbers, diced red onion, capers, and sliced smoked salmon. Gently toss the ingredients with a spatula or spoon.
  4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Best served cold.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, and consider adding the smoked salmon just before serving to maintain its texture.

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