The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and the kitchen was filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh ingredients waiting to create a masterpiece. Imagine crisp greens adorned with creamy avocado and delicate ribbons of smoked salmon dancing together in perfect harmony. This is no ordinary dish; it is an Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette that will make your taste buds sing and your heart skip a beat.
I vividly remember the first time I whipped up this salad for a sunny brunch gathering. The side conversations faded as my friends dove into their plates. Their delighted expressions were all the feedback I needed; this dish was clearly a hit! Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply treating yourself after a long day, this salad is sure to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad combines simplicity with elegance while being incredibly easy to prepare
- The explosion of flavors from the creamy avocado and savory smoked salmon makes it irresistible
- Vibrant colors create a feast for the eyes and palate alike
- It’s versatile enough to shine at brunch or as a light dinner option
I once made this salad for my family during a summer picnic, and let me tell you, it disappeared faster than ice cream on a hot day!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed but are not overly soft for optimal creaminess.
- Smoked Salmon: Look for high-quality smoked salmon; it adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Mixed Greens: Use a blend of arugula and spinach for peppery notes that complement the rich flavors.
- Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch; opt for English cucumbers for fewer seeds and more flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: A good quality Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick in the vinaigrette.
- Honey: Use raw honey for sweetness; it balances out the acidity in the dressing beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor profile; choose one that’s fruity and aromatic.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire salad; bottled juice just won’t do!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry using paper towels or a salad spinner to avoid soggy greens later.
Slice the Avocados and Cucumber: Cut each avocado in half, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh gently with a spoon, then slice. For the cucumber, slice thinly into rounds.
Create Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be smooth yet slightly thick!
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced avocados, cucumber rounds, and ribbons of smoked salmon. Pour just enough dressing over to coat lightly without drowning.
Plate and Serve: Use tongs to serve generous portions on individual plates or arrange on one big platter for sharing. Drizzle any remaining dressing on top before serving.
Enjoy each bite of this vibrant Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette as you revel in its delightful combination of textures and flavors!
You Must Know
- This Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette offers a delightful balance of flavors
- The creamy avocado, smoky salmon, and tangy vinaigrette create a refreshing dish perfect for brunch or lunch
- Your taste buds will thank you for this delectable combination!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients: chop veggies, slice the salmon, and whisk the vinaigrette. This ensures efficient assembly and makes it easier to enjoy the process without panic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Swap smoked salmon for grilled chicken or add nuts for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity flow!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it cold to preserve the fresh flavors and textures.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose ripe avocados for creaminess; underripe ones are a no-go
- Use fresh herbs like dill or chives to elevate flavor further
- A squeeze of lemon juice prevents avocado browning and keeps your salad vibrant
Cooking this salad always reminds me of that sunny afternoon picnic with friends where we devoured every bite, laughing over spilled vinaigrette and enjoying seconds—definitely a cherished memory!
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Absolutely! Just cook the fresh salmon as desired before adding it to the salad.
How do I make this salad vegan?
Replace smoked salmon with marinated tofu or chickpeas for protein-rich alternatives.
What can I serve with the avocado smoked salmon salad?
Pair it with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal experience.
Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette is a light and refreshing dish that perfectly balances creamy avocado, savory smoked salmon, and zesty vinaigrette for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 oz smoked salmon
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
- 1 cucumber (sliced)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly.
- Halve avocados, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and slice. Thinly slice the cucumber.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced avocados, cucumber, and smoked salmon ribbons. Drizzle with dressing to coat lightly.
- Serve immediately or plate individually with extra dressing on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
