This Smoked Salmon Salad is a refreshing and light dish, packed with protein and healthy fats. The combination of smoked salmon, creamy avocado, and hard-boiled eggs, paired with a tangy lemon-dill dressing, makes it a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

8 ounces mixed greens
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
3 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
1 avocado, sliced

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped dill
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red onion, and Persian cucumbers. Toss gently to mix.
Add the Toppings
Arrange the smoked salmon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and sliced avocado on top of the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: This salad is packed with heart-healthy fats from avocado and smoked salmon, plus protein from the eggs and salmon.
Fresh and Flavorful: The creamy avocado and tangy dressing perfectly complement the savory smoked salmon, making every bite delicious.
Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Versatile: Great for any occasion, whether you’re having a light lunch, preparing a picnic, or serving as a starter at a dinner party.

Tips

Smoked Salmon: For the best flavor, use high-quality smoked salmon. You can also try gravlax or other types of smoked fish if preferred.
Lemon Dressing: If you like more acidity in your dressing, feel free to add extra lemon juice or a dash of white wine vinegar.
Adjust the Greens: You can substitute the mixed greens with arugula, spinach, or baby kale depending on your taste preferences.
Avocado: To prevent the avocado from browning, prepare it just before serving or squeeze a little lemon juice on top.

Variations and Substitutions

Herbs: If you’re not a fan of dill, try using fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more crunchy vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or cucumbers for extra texture.
Add Grains: For a heartier salad, consider adding quinoa, farro, or wild rice.
Swap the Eggs: If you prefer, you can leave out the eggs or substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegan version.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made dressing?
Yes, you can use a store-bought vinaigrette or creamy dressing, but making your own with fresh ingredients enhances the flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance. Just wait until serving to add the avocado to keep it fresh.

What kind of smoked salmon is best?
Opt for wild-caught, sustainably sourced smoked salmon if possible. It has a richer flavor and is more environmentally friendly.

Serving

Perfect for Light Meals: This salad is great for lunch or as a light dinner, especially when paired with a side of whole grain bread or crackers.
Impressive Starter: It also makes a wonderful starter for a dinner party or holiday meal, thanks to its vibrant colors and elegant ingredients.
Pairing with Drinks: This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.

Suggestions

Add Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds on top of the salad.
Make it a Wrap: You can also turn this salad into a wrap by wrapping the ingredients in a whole wheat or spinach tortilla for a portable meal.
Side Dish Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm quinoa pilaf for a complete meal.