This Salmon Avocado Salad is the ultimate combination of healthy and delicious. A perfectly pan-seared salmon fillet is nestled atop a bed of fresh spinach, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty red onions. Drizzle it all with a tangy homemade lemon vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that’s light, satisfying, and ready in under 20 minutes!ç
If you’ve been looking for quick, nutrient-packed salmon recipes, this one is sure to impress. It’s ideal for summer meals or anytime you want a fresh, flavorful dish. Let’s break down how to make it, plus tips for shopping, cooking, and customizing.
Choosing the Best Salmon
To make this salad truly shine, start with high-quality salmon. Here are a few tips:
Wild vs. Farmed Salmon
For the best taste and nutrition, opt for wild-caught salmon like Sockeye, Coho, or King. Wild salmon has a healthier fatty acid profile and is free from the artificial feed often used in fish farming.
Fresh vs. Frozen
Frozen wild Alaskan salmon is often a more reliable choice than “fresh” salmon at the grocery store, which may not be as fresh as you think. Unless you’re buying from a trusted local fish market, frozen is your best bet.
Ingredients for Salmon Avocado Salad
This salad comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients:
- Salmon: Wild-caught Alaskan salmon delivers incredible flavor and nutrition.
- Baby Spinach: A classic base, but feel free to use your favorite greens.
- Tomatoes: Choose vine-ripened or cherry tomatoes for sweetness and juiciness.
- Avocado: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Cucumber: Refreshing and crisp.
- Red Onion: A sweet, tangy punch that complements the other flavors.
- Lemon Vinaigrette: A fresh and tangy dressing that ties it all together. You can also try Dijon or Champagne vinaigrettes for variety.
Cooking the Perfect Pan-Seared Salmon
To get perfectly moist, flavorful salmon, follow these steps:
- Prep the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to pat the salmon fillets dry for a golden crust.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the fillets.
- Sear: Place the fillets skin-side up in the pan. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip: Gently flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat while the center is still slightly soft, as it will continue cooking off the heat.
Assembling Your Salad
- While the salmon cooks, chop the tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, and red onion.
- Whisk together the lemon vinaigrette.
- Divide the spinach between two large bowls.
- Layer on the veggies, top with the salmon, and drizzle with the dressing.
More Salmon Inspiration
Love salmon? Here are a few more recipes to add to your repertoire:
- Honey Garlic Salmon
- Baked Lemon Dill Salmon
- Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowls
If you have extra avocado, whip up guacamole or a creamy avocado dressing to pair with your salad.
This Salmon Avocado Salad is the perfect mix of fresh, savory, and satisfying—ideal for busy weeknights or a light, flavorful lunch. Enjoy!
Salmon Avocado Salad: A Nutritious, Flavor-Packed Delight
2
servings10
minutes10
minutes
This Salmon Avocado Salad is a nutritious and flavorful recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a light and satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
4 cups baby spinach
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 avocado, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 salmon filets
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
1 recipe lemon vinaigrette
Directions
- Cook the Salmon:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon filets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon in the pan, top-side down, and sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it’s mostly opaque with a slightly soft center.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Divide the spinach, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, and red onion evenly between two bowls.
- Place the cooked salmon on top of the salad.
- Add the Dressing:
- Whisk the lemon vinaigrette ingredients together in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.