Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Salmon salad is the perfect balance of fresh, flavorful, and nutritious. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon with crisp greens, vibrant vegetables, and a deliciously tangy dressing. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and an array of vitamins and minerals. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a healthy meal prep option, this salmon salad is a versatile and satisfying choice. Plus, it can be easily customized with your favorite toppings and dressings to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients
- Fresh or canned salmon
- Mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Avocado
- Bell pepper
- Olives (optional)
- Feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- Nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill)
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Honey or maple syrup
- Garlic
- Salt and black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Salmon: If using fresh salmon, season it with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before flaking into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the Vegetables: Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens. Top with the chopped vegetables, olives, cheese, nuts or seeds, and fresh herbs.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine and Serve: Add the flaked salmon to the salad, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations
- Grain Addition: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous for extra texture and fiber.
- Different Protein: Swap salmon for grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
- Creamy Dressing: Use a Greek yogurt-based dressing for a creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or drizzle with a spicy sriracha dressing.
- Extra Crunch: Include roasted chickpeas or crispy croutons.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Store the dressing separately in a sealed container for up to a week.
- If using cooked salmon, store it separately and consume within 2 days.
- To reheat salmon, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
FAQs
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
Prepare and store all ingredients separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
Can I use canned salmon?
Yes! Drain and flake the canned salmon before adding it to the salad.
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Wild-caught salmon is preferred for its flavor and higher omega-3 content, but farm-raised works too.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, if you omit honey/maple syrup and choose low-carb toppings.
What other dressings go well with salmon salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or avocado-lime dressing work well.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it properly before cooking.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Squeeze a little lemon juice over it before adding it to the salad.
Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, serve with freshly cooked warm salmon for a comforting meal.
How do I add more protein?
Add boiled eggs, chickpeas, or additional salmon for an extra protein boost.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep components separate until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
This delicious and healthy salmon salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that fits a variety of dietary needs. It’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and customize it to your taste!
Print
Delicious and Healthy Salmon Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
Description
A fresh and flavorful salmon salad packed with omega-3s, lean protein, and vibrant vegetables. This quick and healthy meal is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, with a tangy homemade dressing.
Ingredients
- 6 oz fresh or canned salmon
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: If using fresh salmon, season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Let cool, then flake.
- Chop the Vegetables: Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and avocado.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add mixed greens and top with chopped vegetables, olives, cheese, nuts/seeds, and fresh herbs.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey/maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Add flaked salmon to the salad, drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and enjoy!
Notes
- Grain Addition: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous.
- Alternative Proteins: Swap salmon for grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
- Dressing Variations: Try balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or avocado-lime dressing.
- Extra Crunch: Add roasted chickpeas or croutons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: Pan-seared or baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Salmon salad, healthy salad recipe, Mediterranean salmon, keto salmon salad, easy meal prep
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