Are you looking for a healthy and delicious meal option that’s packed with protein and flavor? Look no further than salmon salads! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. When paired with a variety of fresh greens, fruits, nuts, and cheeses, it creates a salad that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different salmon salad recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic combinations like grilled salmon and avocado to more adventurous pairings like teriyaki salmon with edamame, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie or just looking for a quick and easy meal option, these salmon salads are sure to please.
So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious world of salmon salads!
Grilled Salmon and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with creamy avocado, crunchy lettuce, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, chopped lettuce, and grilled salmon.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the peppery bite of arugula, perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, sliced
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, smoked salmon, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh dill.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Asian-Inspired Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing fusion of Asian flavors and fresh salmon, this salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
2. Add the flaked salmon and toss to coat with the sesame dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, and scallions.
4. Place the salmon mixture on top of the salad and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking time for salmon)
Citrus-Glazed Salmon Salad with Spinach
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of citrus glaze with the omega-richness of salmon, all wrapped up in a bed of peppery spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 4 cups baby spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the citrus glaze evenly over each piece.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss baby spinach leaves with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To assemble the salad, place a cooked salmon fillet on top of a bed of spinach leaves, garnished with chopped fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Salmon Salad with Feta and Olives
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean in this refreshing salad featuring seared salmon, crumbled feta cheese, and briny olives. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
7. Place the seared salmon fillets on top of the salad and drizzle with lemon juice.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Nicoise Salad with Green Beans
This classic French-inspired salad combines the richness of grilled salmon with the crunch of green beans and the tanginess of a vinaigrette dressing. A perfect main course or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled salmon, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Salmon Salad with Mixed Greens
A sweet and tangy combination of flavors, this salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox. Pan-seared salmon fillets are served atop a bed of mixed greens, with a drizzle of homemade honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Slice the pan-seared salmon into strips and place on top of the salad.
7. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Power Salad
Kickstart your day with this nutrient-packed salad, featuring grilled salmon, quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz grilled salmon fillet (cooled)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grilled salmon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the cooking method for salmon)
Pesto Salmon Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing summer salad featuring pan-seared salmon, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese.
7. Arrange the roasted cherry tomatoes on a plate, top with seared salmon, and spoon the pesto sauce over the top.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Salmon Cobb Salad with Bacon and Eggs
This recipe combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the richness of bacon, the creaminess of eggs, and the crunch of fresh greens. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
– 1 hard-boiled egg, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, flaked salmon, crumbled bacon, diced egg, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking method for salmon)
Spicy Sriracha Salmon Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Spicy Sriracha Salmon Salad combines the richness of grilled salmon with the bold flavors of sriracha and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce and olive oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Slice grilled salmon into thin strips. Place on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle sriracha mixture over the salad and serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Mango Summer Salad
Enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional salads with this light and flavorful salmon and mango combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon fillet, flaked
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, mango, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek-Style Salmon Salad with Tzatziki
This refreshing salad combines the richness of grilled salmon with the tanginess of a classic Greek tzatziki sauce, all atop a bed of crisp mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled salmon, and tzatziki sauce. Top with feta cheese (if using).
4. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Kale Caesar Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with the earthy sweetness of kale and a tangy homemade Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bunches of curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (see below)
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with your hands to soften.
3. Add grilled salmon, croutons, and Parmesan cheese on top of the kale.
4. Drizzle homemade Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Salad with Edamame
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of teriyaki salmon with the nuttiness of edamame, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz salmon fillet
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cooked edamame
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillet.
3. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over the salmon and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, edamame, green onions, and sesame seeds.
5. Once the salmon is done, flake it into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Salmon and Farro Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the richness of salmon with the nutty flavor of farro, all tied together with a bright and citrusy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
2. Add the flaked salmon on top of the salad mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (assuming cooked salmon)
Salmon and Beetroot Salad with Goat Cheese
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the richness of salmon, the earthiness of beetroot, and the creaminess of goat cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine the sliced beetroot and crumbled goat cheese.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
6. Pour the dressing over the beetroot mixture and toss to combine.
7. Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into chunks and add to the beetroot mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Salmon and Cucumber Dill Salad
This salad combines the omega-3 richness of salmon with the cooling crunch of cucumber, all tied together with a tangy dill dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked salmon fillet (cooled)
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled salmon, cucumber slices, and chopped dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salmon mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10 minutes.
Salmon and Sweet Potato Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the richness of grilled salmon, the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, and the creaminess of tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender, combine tahini, lemon juice, and 1 tbsp water. Blend until smooth.
4. Cut roasted sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Combine with grilled salmon, chopped parsley (if using), and tahini dressing.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salmon and Apple Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with the sweetness of apples, crunch of walnuts, and a hint of tanginess from the dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz wild-caught salmon fillet
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper; cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced apple, chopped walnuts, and grilled salmon.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to reel in the flavor with these 20 mouthwatering salmon salad recipes! From classic combinations like grilled salmon and avocado, to bold flavors like spicy Sriracha and Mediterranean-inspired feta and olives, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a healthy dinner option, these salads are sure to impress. Plus, with ingredients like quinoa, kale, and farro adding protein and texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.