How long will this recipe last?

If kept in an airtight container, this smoked salmon salad will stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days.

I would not recommend freezing this recipe. The high water content of zucchini would likely cause it to become soggy once defrosted, and the emulsion of the mayo would not thaw well.

Can I use a different protein source?

Yes, while smoked salmon is a super convenient way to add tons of protein and healthy fat to this dish, nearly any protein source you prefer would work. If you’re looking for alternatives, I would recommend using chicken, shrimp, tuna, or another lightly flavored option that would not overpower the Cajun flavors.

Cajun Smoked Salmon Zucchini Noodles Salad {Paleo}

Description

Smoked Salmon Zucchini Noodles Salad makes for a perfect no cook meal! A zippy cajun sauce tossed in chopped vegetables and zucchini noodles then topped with peppery smoked salmon. Paleo, low carb and real food deliciousness!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 zucchini or 1 zucchini & 1 summer squash
1/2 large red onion, peeled and chopped (1 cup chopped)
1 cup diced/sliced cherry tomatoes
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
Salt/pepper to taste
5 ounces smoked wood salmon or hot smoked salmon of choice (skin removed and sliced)
fresh cilantro (torn) to garnish (optional)
2 Tablespoons capers (optional)
1 Tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes to garnish (optional)

Cajun Sauce

1/2 cup paleo mayo or red pepper hummus for an egg-free option
1/2 Tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt/pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne (Or use a cajun spice mix in place of cayenne and paprika)
1/8 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Wash the zucchini/squash and cut off stems.
Spiralize using a spiralizer or use a peeler to create shavings (larger flat zucchini noodles) for the zucchini pasta. The zucchinis can be julienned as well.
Place in bowl and pat with a paper towel to remove excess water from the noodles. Set aside.
Prep/chop the other vegetables. Mix with noodles. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

For the Cajun Sauce:

Whisk together 1/2 cup paleo mayo or red pepper hummus (if using the hummus, be sure to heat it for 20 seconds in a microwave-safe bowl to softened before mixing), olive oil, paprika, garlic, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

To Finish Salad:

Toss the sauce with the zucchini, squash noodles, and other vegetables in a bowl. Reserve some sauce for extra topping if desired.
Add peppered or cajun spiced smoked salmon sliced on top.
Crushed red pepper, capers, and cilantro to garnish.
Serve an extra lemon wedge on the side.

Notes

For the Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) Prep: Press with a dry paper towel to remove excess water before mixing

If you are using this as a Whole 30 friendly dish, please check the ingredients on smoked salmon. You will want to use smoked salmon without any added sugar/honey.

Estimated Nutrition shown below Per Serving, with mayo vs hummus – If you use hummus, the fat content will be reduced

Prep Time: 10
Category: main, sides, salads
Method: mix
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 245
Sugar: 2.5 g
Sodium: 724.1 mg
Fat: 19.8 g
Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fiber: 2.1 g
Protein: 8.9 g
Cholesterol: 21.5 mg

Keywords: zucchini noodles, smoked salmon, paleo, whole30, gluten free, low carb