Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

A fresh and vibrant dish, Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is perfect for any occasion. This salad brings together tender grilled salmon, creamy avocado, and the sweetness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and ideal for lunch or dinner, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking a light yet satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of total time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of grilled salmon with tangy feta and sweet cranberries creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from salmon, this salad is both filling and good for you.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side salad at your gatherings; it fits any occasion seamlessly.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or frying pan: Essential for cooking the salmon to perfection with that desirable char.
• Mixing bowl: A must for combining all the fresh salad ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps blend the dressing smoothly for an even flavor throughout your salad.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 1 salmon fillet (about 150g)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried dill or parsley
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

• 2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper, to taste

How to Make Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

Season the salmon fillet with olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Once done, let it rest before flaking into chunks.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced avocado, dried cranberries, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and walnuts if desired.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Step 4: Assemble

Arrange the fresh salad on a serving plate. Top it with flaked salmon pieces and drizzle generously with your prepared dressing.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta immediately while the salmon is warm and the avocado is creamy.

How to Serve Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

Serving your Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this dish.

Plated Presentation

• Arrange the salad beautifully on a plate, ensuring each ingredient is visible. This makes the dish visually appealing and inviting.

Add Extra Greens

• Serve with additional arugula or spinach on the side for a vibrant touch. The extra greens complement the flavors while adding more nutrients.

Pair with Whole Grain Bread

• Offer slices of whole grain or sourdough bread alongside the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and makes for a more filling meal.

Create a Salad Bowl

• Serve the salad in a bowl instead of a plate for a casual, family-style presentation. This allows everyone to enjoy their portion easily.

Drizzle with Extra Dressing

• Provide extra dressing on the side for those who prefer a little more flavor. A drizzle can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

To ensure your Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce and high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Properly Season Your Salmon: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
• Watch Cooking Time: Cook salmon just until it flakes easily to avoid dryness; about 4-5 minutes per side is ideal.
• Mix Dressings Well: Whisk your dressing thoroughly to combine flavors evenly before drizzling over the salad.
• Use Ripe Avocados: Ensure avocados are ripe but firm; they should be creamy without being too mushy.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch and varying flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A light, fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs that complements the salad’s flavors perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth and earthiness to your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the avocado.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness that pairs well with grilled salmon.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus seasoned with salt and pepper adds an elegant touch.
6. Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad tossed in olive oil and lemon adds protein and complements the other ingredients nicely.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings brightness and sweetness, making it a delightful addition.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer visual appeal along with great flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a cooking time of about 4-5 minutes per side or until it flakes easily.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping seasoning can dull the flavors. Always season your salmon and salad ingredients well with salt and pepper for a tasty result.

• Using Ripe Avocados: Using unripe avocados can result in an unpleasant texture. Make sure your avocado is ripe but still firm for the best creaminess.

• Skipping the Dressing: A good dressing ties all ingredients together. Don’t skip this step; whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard for a zesty finish.

• Chopping Ingredients Too Small: Cutting veggies too small can make your salad mushy. Aim for bite-sized pieces that maintain their crunch and flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the avocado’s texture upon thawing.
• If freezing, store only the salmon separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power in short intervals until warm, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta:

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

You can substitute salmon with grilled chicken or shrimp for different flavors while keeping the salad nutritious.

What can I use as a vegan alternative?

For a vegan version, replace salmon with marinated grilled tofu or chickpeas, adding protein without animal products.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The total time to prepare Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is around 20 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

What other toppings work well with this salad?

Feel free to customize by adding nuts like almonds or seeds like pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy trying this fresh and hearty meal!