Perfectly Balanced Salmon and Avocado Salad

Salmon and avocado salad is a popular dish that has been gaining in popularity over the years due to its amazing balance of flavors and nutritional benefits. This vibrant combination offers you protein from the salmon, healthy fats from the avocado, along with various vitamins and minerals. Preparing this dish is simple; it takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves four people.

Salmon and avocado salad can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a side dish to complement your favorite meal. The taste of this dish is light yet filling, making it perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for an easy lunch option, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

To make a delicious salmon and avocado salad, all you need are these ingredients:

4 pieces of skinless salmon fillets
3 ripe avocados
1 small red onion (finely sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

Begin by cooking the salmon fillets. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cook the salmon in a baking dish for about 12 minutes, turning it halfway through cooking time. Ensure that the fish is cooked until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Allow the salmon to cool on a plate covered loosely with aluminum foil before flaking the fillets into large chunks using two forks.

While your salmon is baking, prepare the rest of the salad. Peel the avocados and cut them into cubes. Slice the red onion finely and halve the tomatoes. Set these ingredients aside in a large mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice to prevent browning as you work on cutting the ingredients.

Once your salmon is flaked, add it along with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and cilantro or parsley (if using) into the bowl containing the avocado, tomato, and onion. Toss everything well so that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Taste to see if additional lemon juice or seasoning is needed.

Why Salmon and Avocado Salad?

This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients that are beneficial for your overall health. Let's take a look at some of its key benefits:

Healthy Fats: Both salmon and avocado contain healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, which help in reducing inflammation and supporting brain function.
Vitamins and Minerals: Avocados are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins C, K, E, and B6. On the other hand, salmon provides a high amount of protein along with vitamins D and B12.
Fiber Content: This dish is also packed with dietary fiber that aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer periods.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Approximate)

Serving size: 1/4 of the total salad (about 200 grams)

Calories: ~280 kcal
Total Fat: ~20 g
Protein: ~30 g
Carbohydrates: ~15 g
Fiber: ~9 g

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can serve it as a main course or pair it with some fresh greens for a more substantial meal. Additionally, you may consider adding other ingredients like cucumber slices or radishes to enhance the flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your salmon and avocado salad, store them in an airtight container inside the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about three days. Ensure that any remaining dressing is applied just before serving to maintain freshness.

In conclusion, making a salmon and avocado salad is not only easy but also incredibly nutritious and delicious! With its delightful mix of flavors and health benefits, this dish is sure to become a favorite among food enthusiasts. Try it out for yourself and enjoy the perfect blend of taste and nutrition!