Simple Salmon Salad

Looking for a simple salmon salad recipe that’s easy to prepare yet delicious? This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh and healthy meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. The keyword “simple salmon salad” highlights this dish as an ideal option for busy individuals or families looking for a quick yet nutritious meal.

This simple salmon salad can be prepared within 30 minutes, making it suitable for lunch or dinner. It serves four people comfortably. Let's dive into how you can create this refreshing and healthy meal using basic ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• Cucumber slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start with this easy salmon salad recipe, begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cucumber under cold water to ensure they are clean.

1. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or pan. Drizzle them generously with lemon juice and cover each side with finely chopped red onion slices for flavor. Allow the fish to marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before cooking.
2. In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice until thoroughly combined. This dressing will serve as the base of your salad.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Bake them in the preheated oven until they are fully cooked and opaque inside, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
4. Once done, let the baked salmon cool slightly before flaking it into smaller pieces using two forks. This step ensures that the fish is not too hot to handle while you’re assembling your salad.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed greens or torn romaine lettuce with the flaked salmon, sliced cherry tomatoes, and chopped cucumber. Pour over the yogurt-based dressing and toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
6. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish your salad with additional cucumber slices if desired. Serve immediately or chill it for a few minutes before enjoying this refreshing and healthy meal together!

Tips & Variations

If you want to add more flavor or variation to this basic salmon salad recipe, consider these suggestions:

• Try adding some capers or olives for additional saltiness.
• Sprinkle a little bit of chives on top right before serving as they complement the other flavors well.
• You could also incorporate avocado into the mix; its creaminess pairs nicely with the citrusy yogurt dressing and crunchy vegetables like cucumbers and onions.

The simple salmon salad recipe outlined above provides not only a delightful taste but also numerous health benefits due to its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids found in wild-caught salmon. These essential nutrients support brain function, heart health, and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Moreover, combining them with antioxidant-rich fruits such as cherry tomatoes adds further protection against oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

For those who prefer a vegetarian version without losing out on taste or texture, you can substitute the salmon fillets with grilled tofu or seitan cut into similar sizes and marinated in lemon juice alongside onions just like the fish. Another alternative would be to use canned white tuna instead of salmon which offers comparable nutritional values such as protein content but comes at a lower cost per serving.

In conclusion, whether you're hosting a casual gathering with friends or simply preparing lunch for yourself, this simple yet impressive salmon salad is sure to please everyone's palette. Its straightforward preparation process combined with its adaptability through various additions makes it an excellent go-to dish throughout the week. So why not give it a try today? You might discover it becoming one of your favorite recipes!