Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad with Mixed Greens
extrarecipes This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
One sunny afternoon, I found myself craving something fresh and light. I opened my fridge to discover a beautiful piece of smoked salmon and a ripe avocado waiting for me, which inspired this delightful smoked salmon and avocado salad. The creamy avocado paired with the smoky, rich flavors of the salmon creates a perfect balance that I just couldn't resist.
What sets this recipe apart is the unique twist of adding citrus and a hint of dill, which enhances the flavors beautifully. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that feels special enough for a gathering, but quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
Why You'll Love It
Ingredient Notes
What You'll Need
- 8 oz smoked salmon, slicedchoose high-quality salmon for a rich, smoky flavor; look for wild-caught options if possible
- 2 ripe avocados, dicedthe riper the better; they should give slightly when pressed to ensure creaminess
- 4 cups mixed greensI love using a blend of arugula and spinach for peppery and mild flavors
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halvedlook for vibrant, firm tomatoes; they add a pop of color and sweetness
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly slicedopt for fresh, firm onions for a nice crunch and a bit of sharpness
- 1 lemon, juicedfreshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad and enhances flavors
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oiluse good quality oil for a fruity note that complements the salad
- 1 tsp Dijon mustardadds a tangy depth to the dressing that balances the richness of the salmon and avocados
- 1/2 tsp saltessential for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients
- 1/4 tsp black pepperfreshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and a hint of spice
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, choppedfresh dill adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with salmon
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbledoptional but it adds a creamy, tangy finish to the salad
When shopping for the key ingredients in this Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad, prioritize freshness. The quality of the smoked salmon and the ripeness of the avocados will greatly affect the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Easy Substitutions
- Dairy-free: swap feta cheese for nutritional yeast — you'll get a cheesy flavor without the dairy, though it will be less creamy.
- Gluten-free: all ingredients are gluten-free; just ensure any processed items like mustard are certified gluten-free.
- Lower calorie: swap olive oil for a light vinaigrette — this will reduce calories but may make the dressing less rich.
How to Make This Recipe
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. This mixture creates a bright, tangy dressing that will enhance the flavors of the salad.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of mixed greens, 1 diced avocado, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and ¼ of a sliced red onion. The colors should pop against each other, creating a vibrant salad base.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together. This step is crucial as it ensures each bite is deliciously coated, and you’ll hear a satisfying crunch as the greens mix.
Carefully add 4 ounces of smoked salmon on top of the salad. The salmon should be soft and slightly smoky, providing a lovely contrast to the fresh greens.
Sprinkle fresh dill over the salad for a touch of herbal aroma. If you’re using feta cheese, add ¼ cup of crumbled feta on top for a creamy finish. This is where the flavors really come together.
Serve immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and rich flavors of your Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad!
Pro Tips
The flavor of your salad hinges on the quality of the smoked salmon. I always opt for a wild-caught variety, as it has a richer taste and a firmer texture that stands up beautifully to the creaminess of the avocado.
I like to keep my mixed greens in the fridge for at least an hour before tossing the salad. Cold greens maintain their crispness and make the salad even more refreshing, especially on a warm day.
For an extra crunch, I often sprinkle toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top. They not only add a pleasureful texture but also a nutty flavor that complements the creamy avocado and smoky salmon perfectly.
A little lemon or lime zest in the dressing can brighten the salad. I’ve found that just a teaspoon of zest adds an aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor profile and makes the dish sing.
Mixing different greens, like arugula and baby kale, not only enhances the flavor but also the visual appeal. Each green brings its unique taste and texture, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
Variations & Customizations
Flavor Twists
Mediterranean Delight
Replace the dill with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil and add 1/2 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced. This twist will give your salad a vibrant Mediterranean flair, with the olives adding a briny punch that complements the creamy avocado perfectly.
Spicy Zing
Add 1 minced jalapeño pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dressing. This variation brings a pleasureful heat that dances across your taste buds, adding a lively kick to the rich, buttery avocado and smoky salmon.
Creative Variations
Fruit Fusion
Incorporate 1 cup of diced mango and 1/2 cup of sliced strawberries into the salad. The sweetness of the fruit beautifully contrasts with the rich salmon and creamy avocado, creating a colorful dish that's not only visually stunning but bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Storage & Meal Prep
How to Store
Room Temperature
The Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to leave it out, it can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. Keep it in a covered container to avoid exposure to air and pests.
Refrigerator
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure the salad is completely cool before sealing, as warm ingredients can create condensation, making everything soggy. If you’ve added dressing, consider storing it separately to maintain texture.
Freezer
I don’t recommend freezing this salad because the avocado will turn mushy once thawed. If you must freeze it, flash freeze the salmon on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but expect some texture loss.
Meal Prep
For successful meal prep, consider making 1.5 times the recipe. Preparing it the night before works best, allowing the flavors to meld. Use glass containers for easy reheating, and enjoy within 2 days for optimal freshness. If reheating, do so in the microwave at medium power for about 30 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without cooking it further.
Equipment You'll Need
Essential
Whisk: A good whisk is crucial for blending the dressing smoothly, ensuring all the flavors meld together perfectly. A balloon whisk works best, as its shape allows for maximum aeration and emulsification, giving your dressing that delightful lightness.
Large Salad Bowl: Using a large bowl helps you toss the salad ingredients gently without damaging the delicate greens. A wide, shallow bowl allows for easy mixing and ensures that every bite is coated in the delicious dressing.
Nice to Have
Mandoline Slicer: This handy tool can slice your red onion thinly and evenly, which enhances the overall texture of the salad. It saves time and gives you perfectly uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just fine if you prefer a more hands-on approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked salmon?
Yes, you can use canned salmon, but it won't have the same smoky flavor. Consider adding a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic that depth.
Why did my avocado turn brown so quickly?
Avocados oxidize rapidly when exposed to air, causing browning. To slow this down, squeeze some lemon juice over the cut avocado before mixing it into the salad.
How can I make this salad dairy-free?
You can easily make this salad dairy-free by avoiding any creamy dressings. Instead, focus on a simple vinaigrette or just drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For extra crunch, consider adding chopped cucumbers or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. These additions not only enhance the texture but also add delightful flavors.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but keep the components separate until you're ready to serve. This way, the avocado stays fresh, and you can avoid a soggy salad.
This Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad is perfect for those busy days when you want something nutritious and satisfying without the fuss. For the best flavor, always use fresh, high-quality salmon — it makes all the difference. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out, so leave a comment or share your creations on Pinterest!
Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad
by extrarecipes
A refreshing salad combining smoked salmon, creamy avocados, and vibrant mixed greens for a delightful meal.
Save this recipe!
Enter your email and we'll send it straight to your inbox.
Ingredients
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz smoked salmon, sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon juiced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 serving nutritional yeast (optional for dairy-free)
- 1 serving light vinaigrette (optional for lower calorie)
- 1 serving gluten-free mustard (optional)
Instructions
Method
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper for the dressing.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- 3
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
- 4
Add the smoked salmon on top of the salad.
- 5
Sprinkle fresh dill over the salad.
- 6
If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- 7
Serve immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl.
Nutrition (per serving)
Ratings & Reviews
Be the first to review this recipe!
