Name: Salmon Salad with Dill
Ingredients: 16 oz. leftover cooked salmon (or slightly more (see instructions for how to cook salmon if needed)); 1.5 cups celery (cut into 1/4 inch slices); 0.5 cup sliced green onion

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Whenever I think about a light yet satisfying meal, Salmon Salad with Dill immediately comes to mind. There’s something so comforting about combining fresh ingredients with leftover salmon, transforming what could be a mundane dish into something vibrant and delicious. I remember the first time I whipped up this salad. It was one of those glorious summer days when the sun was shining, and I was looking for a quick meal that wouldn’t heat up the kitchen. I had some leftover salmon from dinner the night before and a few veggies in the fridge. With just a splash of dressing and a sprinkle of dill, I created a dish that was not only refreshing but also packed with flavor.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Salmon Salad with Dill

Quick and Convenient

One of the things I absolutely love about Salmon Salad with Dill is how quick it comes together. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious but don’t have the time to cook a full meal from scratch. With just a few fresh ingredients and your leftover salmon, you can create a delightful dish in minutes.

Rich in Nutrients

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Salmon is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain. Coupled with crunchy celery and green onions, you get a perfect blend of protein and vitamins that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

I love serving this dish at casual gatherings or even picnics. It’s light yet filling, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s easy to transport, making it a great option for potlucks or beach days.

Flavorful Dressing

The dressing in Salmon Salad with Dill can be a game-changer. A simple combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and dill enhances the salmon’s natural flavors. You can adjust it to your liking, perhaps adding a bit of mustard or honey for a different twist.

Customizable to Your Taste

This salad isn’t set in stone; it’s highly customizable! Feel free to add other veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or cucumbers, or even toss in some nuts for added crunch. The possibilities are endless, and that’s part of the fun!

Family-Friendly

If you’re cooking for a family, this salad is a hit with both kids and adults. The mild flavors of salmon paired with fresh veggies are generally well-received, making it a go-to when I want to serve something healthy that the whole family will enjoy.

What Goes Into Salmon Salad with Dill

The ingredients for Salmon Salad with Dill are simple yet harmonious. Each component plays a vital role in bringing the dish to life, from the tender salmon to the crunchy vegetables. It’s a lovely blend of textures and flavors that perfectly complement each other.

16 oz. leftover cooked salmon: This is the star of the show! Rich in flavor and nutrients, leftover salmon is perfect for creating a quick meal. If you don’t have any on hand, you can always cook some just for this salad.
1 1/2 cups celery: Adding a refreshing crunch, celery provides not only textural contrast but also a healthy dose of fiber.
1/2 cup sliced green onion: These onions bring a mild onion flavor that brightens up the salad, enhancing its freshness.

How to Prepare Salmon Salad with Dill

Preparing Salmon Salad with Dill is a breeze! You’ll find that it’s straightforward and doesn’t require any special culinary skills. Just a bit of chopping and mixing, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal.

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your leftover salmon is flaked into bite-sized pieces. If you need to cook salmon, do so first and let it cool before adding it to the salad.
Next, grab your celery and slice it into 1/4 inch pieces. This will ensure that each bite is crunchy and refreshing.
Slice the green onion thinly. You can use both the white and green parts to add a lovely color contrast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sliced celery, and green onion. Gently toss them together, being careful not to break up the salmon too much.
Now, it’s time to prepare the dressing! I recommend drizzling some olive oil and squeezing fresh lemon juice over the mixture. A small dash of salt and pepper will enhance the flavors beautifully.
Lastly, add some chopped dill to the mixture. I love using fresh dill, but dried dill works too if that’s what you have on hand. Mix everything gently until well combined.
Give it a taste! Adjust with more lemon juice or seasoning as needed. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is delicious.
Once satisfied with the flavors, chill your salad for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve your Salmon Salad with Dill on a bed of greens or with fresh bread. Enjoy your refreshing creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Quality Salmon: Using fresh, high-quality salmon makes all the difference in flavor.
Chill Time: Allowing the salad to chill helps enhance the flavors as they meld.
Crunch Factor: Ensure your celery is chopped small to maximize the crunch in every bite.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like diced apples or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to ensure your Salmon Salad with Dill turns out perfect every time. Following these suggestions can enhance your dish further and make the cooking process smoother.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within two days.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the vegetables will change upon thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers for a light meal.
Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs like dill can elevate the taste significantly, so don’t skimp on them!
Meal Prep: This salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

What to Pair With Salmon Salad with Dill

Crusty Bread: Serve your salad with a side of fresh crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Pair it with grilled vegetables for a colorful, healthy meal.
Soup: A light soup, like tomato or minestrone, complements this salad beautifully.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the meal.
Picnic-Friendly: This salad is perfect for picnics, served cold alongside fresh fruit.
Light Lunch: It’s an excellent choice for a light lunch on a warm day, providing protein and freshness.

FAQ

For Salmon Salad with Dill, leftover cooked salmon is perfect. You can use grilled, baked, or poached salmon. If you don’t have leftovers, you can quickly cook salmon fillets and let them cool before using them in the salad. Opt for wild-caught salmon for better flavor and health benefits.

Absolutely! One of the best things about Salmon Salad with Dill is its versatility. You might consider adding diced apples for a touch of sweetness, or perhaps some nuts for crunch. Feel free to get creative with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!

You can store your Salmon Salad with Dill in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best to enjoy it fresh. Avoid freezing it, as the veggies may become mushy when thawed.

Yes! This salad is excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as this will help maintain the freshness of the vegetables. Enjoy it throughout the week for a quick and nutritious meal!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Salmon Salad with Dill is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a quick lunch or a light dinner. You won’t regret the deliciousness that comes with each bite, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.