Name: Salmon Salad with Dill
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 16 oz leftover cooked salmon (Flaked or cubed); 1.5 cups celery (Cut into 1/4 inch slices); 0.5 cups sliced green onion; 0.5 cups mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist); 2 tablespoons fresh dill (Finely chopped); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (Freshly squeezed); Salt and pepper (To taste)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made salmon salad. It’s fresh, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. This Salmon Salad with Dill is the perfect way to utilize leftover cooked salmon, making it not only a delicious meal but also a smart way to reduce food waste. With the delightful crunch of celery, the mild bite of green onions, and the aromatic touch of dill, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served on its own, in a sandwich, or with crackers, this recipe is versatile and simple.

Reasons to Love Salmon Salad with Dill

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Salmon Salad with Dill. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute lunches.
Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making this salad both nourishing and satisfying.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a sandwich filling, on top of greens, or even as a dip with crackers. The options are endless!
Flavorful: The combination of dill, celery, and green onions elevates the salmon, creating a fresh and vibrant dish.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make this delectable Salmon Salad with Dill, you will need the following ingredients:

16 oz. leftover cooked salmon: Flaked or cubed. You can also cook fresh salmon; see below for cooking instructions.
1 1/2 cups celery: Cut into 1/4 inch slices for that perfect crunch.
1/2 cup sliced green onion: Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Choose a quality mayonnaise to bring everything together; you can also use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
2 tablespoons fresh dill: Finely chopped; this herb is the star of the show!
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness and acidity.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine all your ingredients.
Fork: For flaking the salmon and mixing.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of your ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the celery, green onions, and dill.

Make Salmon Salad with Dill: A Simple Method

Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Salmon Salad with Dill.

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

If you have leftover cooked salmon, flake it into bite-sized pieces using a fork. If you need to cook fresh salmon, season it with salt and pepper, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Let it cool before using.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the salmon is cooling, chop the celery, green onions, and dill. Aim for uniform sizes for even distribution in the salad.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and dill.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the salmon and vegetables. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your preference.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For best results, cover the salad and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it chilled on its own, in a sandwich, or with crackers.

Make It Your Way

This Salmon Salad with Dill is highly customizable! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add diced cucumber for an extra crunch.
Mix in some diced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness.
Incorporate capers for a briny touch.
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a subtle kick.

Flavor Logic

The magic of this Salmon Salad with Dill lies in its flavor profile.

Salmon: Rich and savory, the star of the dish.
Celery: Provides a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the salmon.
Green Onions: Adds a mild, oniony flavor that complements without overpowering.
Dill: This herb is aromatic and slightly sweet, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Salmon Salad with Dill later.

To store, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with extra salad, you can freeze it, but note that the texture may change upon thawing.

To reheat, it’s best to serve it cold. If you prefer a warm dish, don’t microwave; instead, gently heat it in a pan over low heat just until warmed through.

Quick Q&A

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a great alternative and makes the preparation even quicker. Just drain and flake before using.

What should I serve with Salmon Salad with Dill?

This salad is versatile! You can serve it on a bed of greens, spread it on a sandwich, or enjoy it with crackers or pita chips.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance. It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight!

Is there a substitute for dill?

If you don’t have dill, you can use parsley or tarragon, though the flavor will differ. Dill is the key herb for this recipe, so it’s best to use it if possible.

In Closing

This Salmon Salad with Dill is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together the rich flavors of salmon with the freshness of dill and crunchy vegetables, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re using up leftovers or looking for a quick and healthy meal, this salad is sure to impress.

When you make this recipe, don’t forget to share your creations! Enjoying good food is always better when shared with friends and family. Happy cooking!