Imagine a dish that captures the essence of summer in every single bite - crispy, perfectly seared salmon nestled on a bed of vibrant greens, bursting with juicy citrus segments and creamy avocado. This Summer Salmon Citrus Salad isn't just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched paradise, offering a perfect balance of protein, freshness, and zesty brightness that will make your dinner feel like a gourmet vacation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1 grapefruit, segmented
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up and the fish to cook through.
- Using a spatula, gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- While the salmon is cooking, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, segmented orange, segmented grapefruit, and sliced avocado. Toss gently to mix the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to create a simple dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat the greens and fruits evenly.
- To serve, divide the salad among four plates. Top each serving with a salmon fillet, placing it gently on the greens. Optionally, garnish with additional citrus segments or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your refreshing Summer Salmon Citrus Salad as a light and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that are bright, firm, and have a clean ocean smell. Wild-caught salmon often provides the best flavor and texture.
- Perfect Salmon Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. A high-heat, non-stick pan helps create that delectable crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. Aim for a slightly translucent center - it will continue cooking slightly after removing from heat.
- Citrus Segmenting Trick: Use a sharp knife to remove membrane and create clean citrus segments for a professional presentation.
- Avocado Tip: Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its creamy texture.
- Dressing Variation: For an extra flavor kick, add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to your olive oil dressing.
- Make Ahead: Prep ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the salad's freshness and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
