Description

Welcome to this refreshing recipe for Grilled Salmon Salad with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing! Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a light summer meal, this salad is full of fresh, organic ingredients and flavors that celebrate the season. Whether you’re new to cooking salmon or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying a delicious, healthy meal in no time. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey together.

Ingredients

Scale

Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (more to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 jalapeno, sliced (add more for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon honey (more to taste)
- 1/2 cup cilantro, packed (tender stems OK)
Grilled Salmon Salad
- 4 pieces of salmon (4–6 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 5 ounces baby arugula
- 3 Turkish cucumbers, sliced and salted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Place olive oil, lime juice, mayo, salt, garlic, jalapeno, and honey in a blender. Blend until smooth, then add cilantro and blend again. Adjust the lime and honey for sweetness and tang.

Step 2: Grill the Salmon

Brush each salmon piece with olive oil and season with salt, chili powder, and cumin. Grill on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the arugula, cucumbers, and onions with a small amount of the dressing. Fold in avocados, tomatoes, half the pumpkin seeds, and half the cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve the Salad

Arrange the salad on a serving platter and place the grilled salmon on top. Sprinkle with remaining pumpkin seeds, cotija cheese, and cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with the remaining dressing on the side.

Tip: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon and ensure your grill is properly preheated to avoid sticking.

Notes

Salmon freshness: Always use the freshest salmon possible for the best flavor.
Grill marks: To achieve perfect grill marks, avoid moving the salmon too early. Wait for about 3-4 minutes before flipping.
Dressing balance: Start with less jalapeno if you’re sensitive to spice, and gradually add more for heat.
Extra toppings: Feel free to add roasted corn or black beans for additional texture and flavor.