Grilled Salmon Salad
Introduction
This Mediterranean Grilled Salmon Salad is a light, fresh, and protein-packed dish bursting with vibrant flavors. Juicy, herb-marinated salmon is grilled to perfection and served over a bed of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Finished with a tangy lemon-garlic dressing, this salad is both delicious and nutritious—perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 15-30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Grilled Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Salad:
6 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or baby spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
For the Lemon-Garlic Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Salmon (5 minutes active, 15-30 minutes marinating)
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the salmon fillets with the marinade and let them rest for at least 15-30 minutes (or skip if short on time).
Grill the Salmon (8-10 minutes)
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Salad (5 minutes)
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and toasted pine nuts.
Make the Dressing (2 minutes)
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Assemble & Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Top with grilled salmon fillets.
Garnish with extra feta and fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy
Tips & Tricks
Oven Option:
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of grilling.
Make it Spicy:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Meal Prep Friendly:
Store the components separately and assemble before serving.
Extra Crunch:
Add roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds.
Low-Carb Option:
Serve with a cauliflower rice base instead of greens.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 4g
Omega-3s: High
This Mediterranean Grilled Salmon Salad is the perfect balance of freshness and heartiness!