Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

A fresh, hearty dish, Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with the creaminess of avocado and the sweetness of cranberries. It’s a nutritious meal that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 20 minutes, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from salmon, this salad is both satisfying and good for you.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and fresh greens creates a delightful flavor profile that excites the taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it can also be served as an appetizer at gatherings.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables or nuts based on your personal preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or frying pan: These are perfect for cooking the salmon evenly while maintaining its juicy texture.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps you combine all salad ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly together.

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 on each side until cooked through. Once done, let it rest before flaking it into chunks.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine or mixed greens with diced avocado, dried cranberries, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and walnuts if you’re using them.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Assemble

Arrange the salad mixture on a plate. Top generously with flaked salmon chunks and drizzle with your homemade dressing.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Enjoy this vibrant salad immediately while the salmon is warm and the avocado is creamy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: ~480 kcal per serving
Servings: 1

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

Serving your Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta can enhance its appeal and flavor. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this delicious meal.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa for a nutty flavor and extra protein.
• Brown Rice: Serve on a bed of brown rice for a hearty, healthy base.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for a sweet, fragrant addition.

Incorporate Additional Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Top the salad with grilled chicken slices for more protein.
• Chickpeas: Add roasted chickpeas for a crunchy, plant-based protein boost.

Drizzle More Flavor

• Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad before serving for brightness.
• Avocado Oil: Drizzle avocado oil for added richness without overpowering flavors.

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

Perfecting this salad means paying attention to details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh or sustainably sourced salmon; it enhances the overall flavor and texture.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when seasoning the salmon; it boosts flavor significantly.
• Use Ripe Avocados: Select ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they add creaminess to the salad.
• Mix Greens Well: Ensure all ingredients are well combined in the salad base for balanced bites.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish right after assembling for the best taste and texture.

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

Complementing your salad with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad, providing a satisfying crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and flavor contrast to your meal.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve with hummus and vegetable sticks as a refreshing appetizer before diving into your salad.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crunchy sweet potato fries offer a sweet, savory balance alongside your dish.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs can complement the heartiness of the main salad nicely.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying your rich salmon dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can enhance your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning – Forgetting to season the salmon properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavorful base.
• Overcooking the salmon – Cooking the salmon too long makes it dry. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side to keep it tender and juicy.
• Using unripe avocados – An unripe avocado will be hard and not creamy. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Not balancing flavors – If your salad lacks balance, it may taste one-dimensional. Ensure you have a mix of creamy, tangy, and sweet elements for a vibrant flavor profile.
• Neglecting presentation – A salad’s appeal is visual too! Arrange ingredients thoughtfully for a beautiful presentation that invites enjoyment.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Keep dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes when thawed.
• If you must freeze, store only the salmon in a freezer-safe 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 covered with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use medium power. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, being careful not to cook further.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over low heat, warm salmon gently for a few minutes until heated without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch.

How do I choose ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that are slightly soft when pressed but not mushy. A dark green skin is usually a good sign of ripeness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and nutritional yeast as an alternative.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

How do I store leftovers from the Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store dressing separately for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious meal that bursts with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—add nuts, switch up greens, or adjust dressings. Try this delightful salad today!