
This refreshing salmon avocado salad is my answer when I want something nourishing yet quick to pull together on busy evenings. Packed with healthy fats and colorful vegetables it is just as perfect for a light lunch as it is for an easy weeknight dinner.
I first tossed this salad together after a last minute grocery run and fell in love with how bright and filling it was. Now it is a go-to whenever I need to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Choosing firm bright pink fish makes a difference for flavor and texture
- Ripe avocado: Make sure it gives slightly when pressed for creaminess
- Mixed greens: I love spinach and arugula for their peppery bite but any mix works
- Red onion: Thin slices add mild crunch and a pop of color
- Cucumber: Pick a firm crisp one for the freshest taste
- Cherry tomatoes: Opt for the ripest ones you can find for natural sweetness
- Feta cheese or toasted nuts: Sprinkle for an extra layer of richness or crunch optional but lovely
- Olive oil: Cold pressed extra virgin is best for dressing depth
- Lemon juice: Brings zing and freshness to the salad
- Dijon mustard: The bite balances out the richness of the salmon
- Honey or maple syrup: Just enough to mellow the dressing without making it sweet
- Salt and pepper: Look for sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for best results
Instructions
- Prep the Salmon:
- Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt fresh pepper and a little olive oil or seasoning of your choice. Cook the salmon either on a hot grill skillet or in a preheated oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit until just cooked through eight to fifteen minutes depending on thickness. Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes so it stays juicy then flake it gently or slice into bite sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar combine olive oil lemon juice Dijon mustard honey salt and black pepper. Whisk or shake until everything comes together in a smooth silky vinaigrette.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Arrange your mixed greens in a large serving bowl. Add sliced onion cucumber halved cherry tomatoes and diced avocado for a mix of flavors and textures. Lay the warm cooked salmon on top then drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently just enough to coat or serve the dressing on the side for a lighter touch.

Avocado is always my favorite part of this recipe. I remember teaching my kids how to pick the perfect one and now they choose the ripest avocado for our salads every time. This dish has become a tradition for our weekends together.
Storage Tips
Salmon avocado salad keeps best when stored in separate containers. I like to keep the flaked salmon and chopped veggies in the fridge for up to two days. Only add avocado and dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and bright.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have salmon try grilled chicken or canned tuna for a twist. For the greens feel free to swap in kale or butter lettuce. The dressing is flexible too swap lemon for lime or use agave if you do not have honey or maple syrup on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This salad stands alone as a satisfying meal but you can round it out with crusty bread or a side of roasted potatoes. I sometimes scatter extra toasted pine nuts or a handful of crumbled feta to make it feel even more special.
A Little History
Salmon salads are common around coastal regions where fresh fish is part of everyday life. The pairing of avocado and greens gives this updated version a fresh Californian vibe while the bright dressing ties all the flavors together for a modern classic.

This salmon avocado salad is as easy as it is impressive. Enjoy it fresh every time for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of salmon works best?
Both wild-caught and farm-raised salmon fillets work well. Choose skinless fillets for easier flaking and preparation.
- → Can I substitute the greens?
Absolutely! Use your favorite mix like spinach, arugula, or baby romaine for varied flavor and color.
- → What's a good vegetarian alternative?
Replace the salmon with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a flavorful, plant-based variation.
- → Is the salad best served warm or cold?
It's delicious either way. Warm salmon adds comfort, while chilled components keep it refreshing.
- → Can the dressing be made ahead?
Yes, the lemon-Dijon vinaigrette can be whisked in advance and kept refrigerated for up to three days.