Dive into a world of flavor with this Mediterranean Salmon Salad, an exquisite blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients, topped with perfectly marinated salmon. It’s a culinary journey that promises to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
For the Marinade & Dressing:
- ¼ cup of rich olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of tangy red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, for a hint of warmth
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, adding a Mediterranean flair
- 1 teaspoon of fresh dill, chopped for a burst of herby goodness
- 1 teaspoon of salt for seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick
- 4 succulent skinless salmon fillets (6 oz each), ready to soak up the flavors
For the Salad:
- 4 cups of red leaf lettuce, roughly chopped for a tender base
- 1 cup of sweet grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of crunchy Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 medium avocado, sliced for a creamy touch
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced for a sharp contrast
- ⅓ cup of crumbled feta cheese, adding a tangy twist
- ⅓ cup of kalamata olives, for a salty depth
- Lemon wedges to garnish, adding a zesty finish
Cooking Instructions:
- Marinating Magic: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, dill, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This vibrant mixture will serve as both the marinade and dressing. Reserve half for the salad dressing, and marinate the salmon fillets with the rest for at least 30 minutes, letting them absorb the medley of flavors.
- Salmon Sizzle: Heat a grill pan or fire up the outdoor grill. Place the salmon fillets and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes. Flip them gently, watching as they turn perfectly golden, cooked through with a tantalizing sear.
- Salad Toss: While the salmon grills, mix the red leaf lettuce, grape tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, red onion, feta cheese, and kalamata olives in a large bowl. This salad base is a colorful canvas of textures and tastes.
- Assemble with Flair: Lay the grilled salmon atop the salad. Drizzle over with the reserved herby, zesty dressing and give it a gentle toss, ensuring every leaf and slice is coated in the dressing’s bright flavors.
- Serve with a Splash: Garnish with lemon wedges. Each plate is not just a meal, but a vibrant, delicious experience. Enjoy the blend of creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements, all brought together by the star of the dish – the beautifully marinated and grilled salmon.
Discussion about this post