Easy Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing
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This salmon salad recipe is a fresh, wholesome main dish that comes together in about 20 minutes. Packed with flaky roasted salmon, crisp greens, and vibrant summer vegetables, it's finished with a bright citrus vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully.
If you love salmon salad, you'll also love these dinner salad ideas: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Salmon or Harvest Salmon Salad featuring late summer ingredients.
About this Recipe
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors and a twist on classic caprese, this salad layers peppery arugula, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, fresh basil, and shredded mozzarella. Roasted salmon, seasoned with a simple, smoky dry rub, adds richness and heartiness with minimal effort.
It's a salad that feels elegant but is simple enough for weeknights-and makes a beautiful meal prep lunch, too.
Looking for more salmon inspiration? Try my quick and easy Pan-Seared Salmon with Greens - a skillet favorite for busy nights.
For another summery seafood favorite, try this easy Maryland Crab Cakes recipe, perfect for BBQ get-togethers all season long.
Love salmon in all its forms? On chilly days, warm up with a bowl of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto), a lightly creamy Nordic classic that's perfect for chilly nights."
Why I Love This Salmon Salad
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes with just a few simple steps.
- Packed with Flavor: Smoky roasted salmon, fresh herbs, and a citrusy vinaigrette bring layers of brightness.
- Wholesome & Balanced: Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats-it's as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Perfect for Summer: Fresh vegetables and zesty lemon make this ideal for hot days or al fresco dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: The components keep well, making it a great option for prepping ahead.
Jump to:
Key Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this wholesome salmon salad:
- Salmon Fillet: Skin-on or skinless works here. Cut into 1-inch strips before baking for more even cooking and quicker prep.
- Dry Rub Spices: A flavorful mix of smoked paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper adds warmth and depth.
- Greens: A mix of peppery arugula and chopped romaine gives the perfect balance of texture and bite.
- Fresh Vegetables: Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion add crunch, color, and freshness.
- Fresh Basil: Don't skip the basil-it ties in the Mediterranean caprese feel.
- Shredded Mozzarella: For a creamy finish. You can swap in fresh mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta if preferred.
- Citrus Dressing: Made with fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper-it's light, tangy, and bright.
How to Make This Salmon Salad
This salad comes together quickly. Here's how:
- Prepare and Roast the Salmon:
Rub the salmon strips with your spice mix and roast at 450°F for 10-15 minutes, or until just cooked through and flaky. - Mix the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, combine the greens, chopped vegetables, basil, and cheese. - Make the Citrus Dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in the olive oil until emulsified. - Assemble:
Add the warm salmon to the salad, drizzle with citrus dressing, and toss gently to combine.
Tip: Let the salmon cool slightly before adding to the salad if serving cold. If making for meal prep, store the salmon separately.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use Leftover or Canned Salmon: An excellent shortcut for busy days.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded mozzarella alternative.
- Add Grains: Toss in cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous for extra heartiness.
- Change Up the Greens: Swap in baby spinach, butter lettuce, or kale.
- Try a Different Cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or fresh mozzarella balls all work beautifully.
Recpe FAQ's
Yes! Store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge. Add salmon just before serving for the best texture.
It's delicious either way! Serve warm for dinner or chilled for a refreshing lunch.
Leftover cooked salmon or high-quality canned salmon are great time-saving options.
Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until flaky and cooked through.
More Quick & Easy Recipes
These ideas are quick and easy, whether you're looking for more seafood recipes or main dish dinner salads.
Seafood Recipes:
- Honey Glazed Salmon
- Smoked Salmon Quiche Recipe
- 15 Minute Spanish Baked Cod Recipe
- Oven Baked Fish and Vegetables
Other Main Dish Salads:
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Salmon Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 1 lb salmon cut into 1-inch stri
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Salad
- 4 cups lettuce like arugula and chopped romaine
- 3 cups cucumber chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup fresh basil
- ½ cup red onion chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
For the Dressing
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Dijon
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Roast the Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 450℉.
- Place sliced salmon on a sheet pan and sprinkle the paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the salmon. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and toss to coat. Roast for 10-15 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
Make the Dressing
- In a lidded jar, such as a mason jar, whisk the lemon juice, honey, and Dijon until smooth. While whisking, drizzle in the olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, toss the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, basil, red onions, lettuce, and cheese. Drizzle dressing over the top and toss. Top the salad with salmon, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Salmon: If you don't want to cook salmon, you can use cooked, leftover salmon, or canned salmon. Flake and toss with the other ingredients and serve.
- Storing: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
I used hot smoked salmon in this salad and it took it over the top! Another advantage - no cooking!
Hi William, thank you for trying the recipe, rating it, and letting us know how you prepared it. Absolutely in love with your adaptations!
This is such an easy and delicious meal! It’s hardy and full of flavor. Roasting the salmon with these spices makes it an anticipated lunch or dinner!