Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that feels both luxurious and refreshing, the Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad is an absolute delight to make and eat. With creamy, buttery avocado slices mingling effortlessly with delicate, smoky salmon and peppery arugula, every bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Tossed with a zingy lemon vinaigrette, this salad elevates a simple meal into something special, perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a classy brunch treat. Trust me, once you try this combination, you’ll find it hard to go back to boring greens!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad keeps things beautifully simple but relies on fresh, quality ingredients for maximum flavor impact. Each component plays its own role in creating that vibrant and satisfying taste you’ll love.

• Ripe avocado: Choose one that yields slightly to gentle pressure for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
• Smoked salmon (100g): Pick high-quality salmon with a delicate smoky flavor and silky texture to complement the avocado perfectly.
• Arugula (2 cups): Adds a peppery, crisp bite that balances the richness of the avocado and salmon.
• Olive oil (1 tsp): A drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil brings a fruity, smooth backdrop to the vinaigrette.
• Lemon juice (1 tsp): Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity.
• Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and tie all the flavors together.

How to Make Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad

Step 1: Prepare the greens

Start by rinsing 2 cups of fresh arugula under cold water, then gently pat them dry. Arrange the peppery leaves evenly on your serving plate as the vibrant green bed for your salad.

Step 2: Slice the avocado

Carefully cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and peel the skin away. Slice it into thin, elegant pieces that will nestle beautifully on top of the arugula.

Step 3: Add the smoked salmon

Take 100 grams of smoked salmon and tear or slice it into manageable, bite-sized pieces. Arrange these delicately over the avocado slices, letting their smoky aroma mingle with the creamy fruit.

Step 4: Dress the salad

Whisk together 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, then drizzle this lively vinaigrette evenly over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

How to Serve Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, consider adding finely chopped fresh dill or chives on top to complement the salmon’s flavor. A few capers scattered around give a delightful briny pop, enhancing the salad’s complexity.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or crunchy rye crackers, perfect for scooping or savoring alongside. A light soup, like cucumber gazpacho or a chilled pea soup, also makes an elegant companion.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at your next gathering, serve this salad on individual plates with the avocado slices fanned out beautifully and the smoked salmon draped artfully. Alternatively, assemble it in clear glass bowls to showcase the contrasting colors and textures in layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because avocado tends to brown quickly, store any leftovers in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon juice on the exposed avocado to slow oxidation. Keep the salad refrigerated and aim to eat within 24 hours for the freshest taste.

Freezing

This salad isn’t well-suited for freezing since the avocado and greens lose their texture and freshness when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh to fully appreciate its creamy and crisp elements.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. If you want to enjoy it again, it’s best to prepare a new batch or simply consume leftovers cold, perhaps pairing them with warm sides instead.

FAQs

Can I substitute the smoked salmon with another type of fish?

Absolutely! While smoked salmon is classic, thin slices of smoked trout or even cured salmon can work beautifully. Just be mindful of the flavor intensity and saltiness to keep the balance right.

What if I’m allergic to citrus; can I skip the lemon juice?

You can replace lemon juice with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a mild white wine vinegar for acidity, which will also brighten the salad without the citrus element.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep lunches?

It can work well for same-day lunches if stored properly. Keep the dressing separate and combine just before eating to keep the arugula crisp and the avocado fresh.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! Cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced radishes add fantastic color and crunch without overpowering the main flavors of the avocado and smoked salmon.

What wine pairs well with Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, bubbly Prosecco pairs beautifully, complementing the smoky salmon and refreshing the palate between bites.

Final Thoughts

This Avocado & Smoked Salmon Salad is one of those rare dishes that feels effortlessly elegant and satisfying at the same time. It’s simple to whip up but packed full of bold tastes and lovely textures that never get old. Whether you need a quick lunch or a charming starter for guests, this salad has your back. Give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!