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Grilled Summer Salmon Salad

Grilled Summer Salmon Salad

The Grilled Summer Salmon Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish combining smoky grilled salmon with crisp mixed greens, juicy seasonal vegetables, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner, this salad offers a refreshing and flavorful way to enjoy heart-healthy omega-3s and fresh produce during warm weather.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (wild or sustainably farmed, approx. 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for grilling)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salad Greens & Vegetables

  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill or parsley), finely chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill the salmon skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through with beautiful grill marks. Once done, set aside to rest.
  2. Prep the Vegetables and Greens: While the salmon cooks, thoroughly rinse and dry the salad greens. Slice the cherry tomatoes in halves, peel and slice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and cube the avocado. Finely chop the fresh herbs.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning as desired to achieve the perfect zing.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and fresh herbs with the dressing. Place the grilled salmon fillets on top, then gently add the avocado cubes last to avoid mashing.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors and vibrant colors, or chill briefly for a cool, refreshing meal on a warm day.

Notes

  • Choose fresh salmon from a trusted source for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the salmon; grill until opaque and flaky but still moist inside.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dressing’s flavor.
  • Dry the greens thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
  • Allow the salmon to rest a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon salad, summer salad, healthy salmon recipe, fresh salmon salad, lemon vinaigrette, nutritious salad, omega-3 salad