Ziti Salmon Salad
A light and flavorful salmon pasta salad with crisp snow peas and fresh bell peppers, perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Creamettes ziti according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, drained salmon, thawed snow peas, chopped red and yellow bell peppers, sliced green onions, and Italian salad dressing.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate thoroughly to chill.
- Toss gently before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing. If snow peas aren't available, you can substitute with peas or green beans. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of ziti. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile, making it a great addition to seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ziti salmon salad chilled for a refreshing dish perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. You can also enjoy it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of soup or a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep the pasta moist. For best results, reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti Salmon Salad contains roughly 193 calories, with 8g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2085mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked salmon in this recipe. Simply bake or poach the salmon until fully cooked, then flake it into the salad. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a different texture compared to canned salmon.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this ziti salad, simply omit the salmon and add more vegetables, such as diced cucumbers or avocado. You could also include chickpeas for added protein and texture, creating a filling and nutritious meal without seafood.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better after it has had time to chill and the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).