Salmon Salad

This Salmon Salad is a nutritious and delicious meal featuring tender baked salmon, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired salad combines romaine lettuce, avocados, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives, topped with creamy feta cheese and flaky salmon. The refreshing lemon and oregano dressing ties all the ingredients together for a satisfying, balanced dish. Easy to prepare, this recipe is great for a light dinner, meal prep, or a quick healthy meal.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon filets
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, see Notes)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Salad:

• 6 cups romaine lettuce (washed and chopped, see Notes)
• 1 cup cucumber (sliced)
• ½ cup red onion (sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced)
• 2 avocados (sliced)
• ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped)
• ½ cup Kalamata olives
• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the salmon filets in a baking dish and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper, and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
3. While the salmon is baking, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and garlic powder in a bowl.
4. To assemble the salad, arrange the romaine lettuce, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocados, fresh dill, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese on a plate.
5. Once the salmon is cooked, top the salad with the salmon filets and drizzle with the dressing.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Salmon Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients and tender, flavorful salmon. It’s light yet filling, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or as a satisfying appetizer. The creamy avocados, tangy feta, and Mediterranean-inspired dressing pair beautifully with the rich, flaky salmon, creating a delicious and healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weekday meal or something special for a gathering, this salad hits all the right notes.

Tips

• Salmon Doneness: Make sure not to overcook the salmon. It should easily flake with a fork but remain moist inside. A thermometer should read 145°F at the thickest part of the filets when done.
• Lettuce Prep: For a crisp salad, ensure your romaine lettuce is thoroughly washed and dried to avoid any sogginess.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just assemble the salad and add the salmon right before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Grilled Salmon: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the salmon instead of baking it.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the feta cheese or substitute it with dairy-free cheese for a vegan or dairy-free option.
• Add More Veggies: Include additional veggies like bell peppers, olives, or roasted vegetables for extra color and flavor.
• Citrus Twist: For a different twist on the dressing, substitute the lemon juice with lime or orange juice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used. Just make sure to thaw it fully before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the filets.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time, like chopping the veggies and making the dressing. However, it’s best to assemble the salad and add the salmon just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I serve with this salad?
This salmon salad can be served on its own or paired with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a light soup for a complete meal.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a Drink: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.
• Add a Side: Serve with some whole-grain crackers or a warm pita for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Garnish: Top with extra fresh dill or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of fresh flavor.