If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, look no further than this Pan-Seared Salmon & Avocado Salad. This dish combines the rich, succulent flavor of perfectly seared salmon with the creamy texture of ripe avocado, all topped with a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a delicious, balanced meal that’s ideal for a light lunch or dinner. Read on for the recipe and method to create this vibrant salad that will impress both yourself and your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, healthy fats from the avocado, and plenty of fresh veggies.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite salad greens and vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- Salmon Fillets: 2 (about 6 oz each), skinless
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Mixed Greens: 4 cups (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber: 1/2, sliced
- Red Onion: 1/4, thinly sliced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for searing salmon)
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
For the Vinaigrette:
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
Method: How to Make Pan-Seared Salmon & Avocado Salad
- Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk: Whisk together until the vinaigrette is well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Season Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat Pan: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear Salmon: Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin side down (if the skin is left on). Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about three-quarters of the way through.
- Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through but still moist. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove and Rest: Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the salad.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Avocado: Gently fold in the avocado slices.
- Dress the Salad:
- Toss: Drizzle some of the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly. Reserve some vinaigrette for drizzling over the salmon.
- Serve:
- Plate the Salad: Divide the salad among two plates or bowls.
- Top with Salmon: Place a salmon fillet on top of each salad.
- Drizzle Vinaigrette: Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the salmon.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for added flavor and color.
Tips for Success
- Salmon Quality: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon is a great option if available.
- Avocado Ripeness: Ensure the avocado is ripe but still firm to avoid it becoming mushy in the salad.
- Temperature Control: Let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Customization: Feel free to add other favorite salad ingredients such as olives, nuts, or cheese.
Final Thoughts
Pan-Seared Salmon & Avocado Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that make for a healthy and satisfying meal. The crispy salmon paired with creamy avocado and fresh, crunchy vegetables creates a balanced dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and elegance.
Have you tried making this dish or have any variations to share? Feel free to leave your comments or questions below. Here’s to enjoying a fresh, flavorful meal that’s as easy as it is enjoyable!
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