Healthy Salmon Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s also packed with nutrients? This Healthy Salmon Salad Recipe combines flaky salmon, crisp veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing to create a refreshing dish perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s light, protein-rich, and easy to customize to your taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, omega-3s, and vitamins.
Full of Fresh Flavors – Crisp veggies and a tangy dressing make every bite delicious.
Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.
Versatile – Serve as a main dish or a hearty side.
Low Carb & Gluten-Free – Ideal for a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:
1 lb skinless salmon fillets
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Juice of ½ lemon

For the Salad Base:
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, diced
¼ cup shredded carrots
2 tbsp sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)

For the Lemon Dijon Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need
Baking sheet or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or small jar for dressing
Salad tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat.
2. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
4. Place on a baking sheet or grill pan and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Let cool slightly, then flake into large chunks.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Dijon Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
2. Whisk or shake until well blended.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado, and shredded carrots.
2. Gently toss with about half of the dressing to coat.
3. Top with flaked salmon and a sprinkle of seeds, if using.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Drizzle remaining dressing over the salad just before serving.
2. Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes for a refreshing bite.

Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Keep it moist and tender by checking early.
Use Fresh Ingredients – The quality of your veggies makes a big difference.
Customize – Add quinoa, boiled eggs, or swap in your favorite greens.
Make It Ahead – Store components separately and assemble just before eating.

Serving Suggestions
Whole Grain Bread – Serve with a slice for a more filling meal.
Lemon Wedges – A little extra lemon juice brightens the flavor.
Soup Side – Pair with a light broth-based soup for a balanced lunch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep salmon and salad in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Dressing: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating:
Salmon: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave just until warm.
Salad: Best served fresh; avoid reheating the greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned salmon?
   Yes, just drain it well and flake before adding to the salad.
2. What’s a good substitute for Dijon mustard?
   You can use whole grain mustard or a bit of yellow mustard in a pinch.
3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
   Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
4. How do I make it dairy-free?
   This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

Final Thoughts
This Healthy Salmon Salad Recipe is a fresh and easy way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal without sacrificing flavor. The tender, flaky salmon combined with crunchy veggies and a zesty lemon Dijon dressing makes it a go-to dish for busy weekdays or light dinners. Make it your own with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 340 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 420mg

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