A Vibrant Salmon Cobb Salad is a fresh and nutritious take on the classic Cobb salad, featuring tender, flaky salmon as the star protein. With colorful vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (such as dill, parsley, or basil)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Salmon:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill method: Grill the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
- Skillet method: Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from the heat and let rest for a few minutes before flaking the salmon into large pieces.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, sliced cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add the sliced hard-boiled eggs and crumbled bacon on top of the salad (if using).
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and emulsified. Stir in the fresh herbs for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- Gently place the flaked salmon pieces over the salad, then drizzle the dressing over the top. You can either toss the salad lightly or leave the dressing on top for a more vibrant presentation.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs, if desired.
5. Serve:
- Serve immediately as a satisfying and wholesome meal!
Tips:
- For added crunch, you can top the salad with some toasted nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or sliced almonds.
- If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the bacon or use a lighter dressing.
- The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s a great time-saver!
This Vibrant Salmon Cobb Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal with a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. Enjoy!