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Smoked Salmon Orzo Salad

PREP 20 minutes
COOK 10 minutes
TOTAL 45 minutes
Yield 4 people
Created by: Charlene Carey
Creamy Smoked Salmon Orzo Salad
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring orzo, smoked salmon, and crisp vegetables, dressed in a tangy mix.
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Course: Salad

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Pot
  • Strainer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo (175g)
  • 2 mini cucumbers (or 1/2 English cucumber), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion (30g), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons capers (30g), drained
  • 6 ounces sliced smoked salmon (170g), torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons mayo (30g)
  • 1 heaping tablespoon sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (15g)
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (2.5g)
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil (7.5ml)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml) + zest of 1 lemon
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder (0.5g)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (15g), chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Start by boiling some water in a pot and adding the uncooked orzo. Cook until tender yet still a bit firm, usually around ten minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. Avoid overcooking to maintain the texture.
  • Once your orzo is cooked, drain it using a strainer and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps the pasta hold its shape. It should feel cool and slightly firm against your fingers.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The dressing should be creamy and well-blended with a fresh zesty aroma. If it is too thick, add a little more olive oil or lemon juice to reach the desired consistency.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo along with chopped cucumbers, red onion, drained capers, torn smoked salmon, and fresh dill. Gently toss until the orzo is evenly coated in the dressing, ensuring a colorful and vibrant appearance.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad extra refreshing. Check that it is cool to the touch when serving.
  • Before serving, taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It should have a burst of flavor, so trust your taste buds to guide you.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; leftovers will last for a few days. You may need to add more lemon juice to revive it before serving.
Prep everything while the orzo cooks for easier assembly. Rinse the orzo with cold water for best results to prevent mushiness. Chill the salad prior to serving for optimal taste.