Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is both nutritious and flavorful, combining the rich, smoky taste of grilled salmon with fresh, crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s easy to customize with your favorite salad ingredients and perfect for light lunches or satisfying dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets
Mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Cucumber (sliced)
Red onion (thinly sliced)
Avocado (sliced)
Olive oil
Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
Honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill salmon for about 4-6 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove and let rest.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Toss the salad with the dressing until well coated.
Flake grilled salmon into large chunks and arrange over the salad.
Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier salad.
Use a creamy dressing like ranch or Caesar instead of vinaigrette.
Toss in nuts or seeds such as almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Add fresh herbs like basil, dill, or cilantro for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers. Reheat salmon gently in the oven or microwave and toss fresh salad before serving. Best eaten the same day.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw completely before grilling.

How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates and salmon before cooking.

Can I cook salmon indoors?

Yes, pan-sear or bake salmon if grilling isn’t possible.

What if I don’t like avocado?

Omit or substitute with sliced bell peppers or roasted veggies.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead?

Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F (63°C) internally.

Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes, feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan are great options.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, with low-carb veggies and no added sugars.

How do I store leftover salad?

Keep salmon and salad greens separate in airtight containers.

Can I add fruits to the salad?

Yes, strawberries, mango, or oranges add a sweet touch.

Conclusion

Grilled Salmon Salad is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful meal that combines smoky, tender salmon with crisp vegetables and a bright dressing. Quick to prepare and versatile, it’s perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner that satisfies.