Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

A fresh and vibrant Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a delightful dinner. This salad features tender chunks of grilled salmon, creamy avocado, and sweet cranberries, all tossed together for a nutritious meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. The flavors combine beautifully, making it a standout dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and salmon, this salad is good for you without compromising on taste.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and savory grilled salmon creates a delightful mix of flavors.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or a side salad; it fits various occasions from casual lunches to elegant dinners.
• Easy to Customize: Swap ingredients based on your preferences; add more veggies or nuts for extra crunch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools for making this delicious salad. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or skillet: Essential for cooking the salmon evenly while adding that lovely grilled flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the salad ingredients together efficiently.
• Whisk: Needed to create a smooth dressing by blending the ingredients thoroughly.

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
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ 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.
– Let it rest for a few minutes before flaking it into chunks.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl:
– Combine chopped lettuce, diced avocado, dried cranberries, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and walnuts if using.

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

On a serving plate:
– Arrange the salad base and top it with flaked salmon. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Enjoy immediately while the salmon is warm and 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

This Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve the salad as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your hunger while providing essential nutrients.

With Toasted Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of toasted whole-grain bread. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy avocado and flaky salmon.

In a Wrap

• Wrap the salad ingredients in a large tortilla or lettuce leaves. This makes for a delicious, portable meal perfect for picnics or on-the-go lunches.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve the salad over a bed of cooked quinoa for added protein and fiber. This elevates the dish into an even more filling option.

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

To make this salad even more scrumptious, consider these helpful tips that can elevate your cooking game.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients impacts the overall flavor. Use fresh greens, ripe avocados, and high-quality salmon for the best results.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasoning your salmon. Proper seasoning enhances its natural flavor and creates a delicious crust when grilled.

• Experiment with Dressings: While balsamic vinegar is recommended, try other dressings like lemon-tahini or honey mustard for a different twist.

• Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for additional texture. They complement the creaminess of avocado beautifully.

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

Complementing this vibrant salad with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic adds flavor and nutrients to your meal.

2. Couscous Salad
   Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with fresh herbs and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast to the salad.

3. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers an elegant touch that pairs well with salmon.

4. Sweet Potato Fries
   Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them an excellent side dish choice.

5. Fruit Salad
   A colorful fruit salad brings a burst of freshness and balances out the savory flavors of the main dish.

6. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs creates a flavorful base that complements the richness of the salmon and avocado salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using Overcooked Salmon: Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Ensure you grill or pan-sear the salmon just until it’s flaky and cooked through.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale greens or overripe avocados can ruin your salad. Always choose fresh produce for vibrant flavors and textures.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can make your dish bland. Season each component—salmon, salad, and dressing—to enhance the overall flavor.
• Skipping the Resting Time for Salmon: Cutting into salmon immediately after cooking can cause it to lose moisture. Let it rest for a few minutes before flaking.
• Improper Dressing Ratio: Too much or too little dressing can overpower the salad or leave it dry. Balance is key; adjust to your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as avocado may become mushy when thawed.
• If you must freeze, store only the cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm the salmon gently, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute other proteins in this salad?

Yes! Chicken or turkey works great as alternatives to salmon in this recipe.

What if I don’t like feta cheese?

You can swap feta with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version of the Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add quinoa, chickpeas, or additional nuts to boost protein and fiber content.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While fresh cranberries are tart, you can use them if you enjoy that flavor profile. You may want to sweeten them slightly.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences—be it swapping proteins or adding extra veggies. Give this refreshing salad a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 1

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Description

Experience a burst of flavor with this Grilled Salmon & Avocado Salad with Cranberries and Feta. This vibrant salad combines tender grilled salmon, creamy avocado, and sweet cranberries, creating a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion—be it a quick lunch or an elegant dinner—this dish is packed with healthy fats and bursting with taste. The tangy feta cheese and crunchy walnuts add delightful texture, making every bite a treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 salmon fillet (about 150g)
• 2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried dill or parsley
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil for dressing
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. 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. Let it rest before flaking into chunks.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced avocado, dried cranberries, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and walnuts (if using).
3. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
4. On a serving plate, arrange the salad base and top it with flaked salmon. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling/Pan-searing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 70mg