When I first decided to make this salmon salad, I had no idea how delightful it would be! The first attempt was a triumph. The salmon turned out perfectly flaky, and the combination of flavors was just right. I was surprised by how satisfying it was, especially on one of those warm spring days. To enhance the salad, I made a couple of tweaks. I added a bit more lemon juice and some crunchy nuts for texture, and wow – what a difference it made!

Salmon Salad
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 4 cups mixed salad greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 avocado sliced
- ½ cucumber sliced
- ¼ red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese optional, but makes it extra tasty!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh is best!
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped nuts or seeds of your choice optional but delightful
- Substitutions: If you’re not a salmon fan feel free to swap in chicken or tofu! You can also use any greens you like – kale, collard greens, or even coleslaw mix work well.
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon: First things first, let’s get that salmon cooked! Preheat your oven to 400°F (or go with the stovetop, whichever you prefer.)
- If baking, Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
- If pan-searing, Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and once hot, place the salmon skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until golden-brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Salad: While the salmon is cooking, let’s chop and prep those lovely salad ingredients!
- In a large salad bowl, throw in your mixed greens as the base.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, cucumber, and red onion. Pretty colors, right?
- If using, sprinkle on the feta cheese and any nuts or seeds you love for extra crunch.
- Make the Dressing: No salad is complete without dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as you like.
- Assemble the Salad: Once your salmon is cooked, let it cool for a minute before flaking it into large pieces. Gently toss everything in the salad bowl with the dressing until well coated. Serve immediately with the salmon on top or mixed in!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
5 Tips for This Recipe
- Use fresh ingredients: They make a world of difference!
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Aim for that perfect flaky texture.
- Customize: Add whatever other veggies you have on hand!
- Make extra dressing: It’s great for leftovers or other salads!
- Let the salad sit: Allowing it to marinate for a few minutes enhances the flavors.
5 FAQs for This Recipe
- Can I use canned salmon? Absolutely! Just drain and flake it, and you’ll save time!
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days!
- Can I add fruits? Yes! Diced fruits like apples or berries can add sweetness!
- How can I make it vegan? Swap the salmon for chickpeas or grilled tofu!
- Is this salad good for meal prep? Definitely! Just keep the dressing separate until serving!
5 Storage Tips
- Keep the components separate: Store undressed salad and salmon separately to keep it fresh.
- Use airtight containers: To prolong freshness and avoid sogginess.
- Label your leftovers: Include dates to keep track of freshness!
- Use within 2 days: For the best taste and quality.
- Revive wilted greens: Soak them in cold water for a quick refresh!
5 Common Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the salmon: This can cause a dry and rubbery texture.
- Using old greens: Always check for freshness when making salads.
- Not seasoning enough: A little salt and pepper goes a long way!
- Forgetting to let the dressing sit: It helps to meld the flavors!
- Forgetting about leftovers: Make sure to eat them within a few days!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Salmon Salad was such a delightful experience, and I can’t stress enough how easy it is to prepare. The fresh flavors, the beautiful colors, and the nutrition packed into this dish make it a top pick in our household! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it just as much as we do.
This recipe offers plenty of room for creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Play with different ingredients, dressings, or methods of cooking the salmon. The world of salads is your oyster!
I hope you give this a try and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking, friends!



