Mediterranean Lime Pepper Salmon Bites Lettuce Boats with Creamy Cottage Herb Sauce
These salmon lettuce boats are a light, fresh, and protein-packed Mediterranean-inspired dish. Tender salmon cubes are seasoned with lime and pepper, seared to perfection, and served in crisp butter lettuce leaves with a creamy cottage cheese herb sauce. They make a perfect appetizer, lunch, or low-carb dinner option, combining bold flavors with a refreshing presentation.
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites
1 lb skinless salmon, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tsp lemon pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
For the Lettuce Boats
1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated and patted dry
For the Creamy Cottage Herb Sauce
¾ cup cottage cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For Garnish
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Herb Sauce
In a small bowl, combine cottage cheese, lemon juice, dill, and parsley. Mix until smooth. Optionally, blend in a food processor for a creamier texture. Set aside.
Cook the Salmon Bites
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season salmon cubes with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
Sear salmon for 2–3 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly golden. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Assemble the Lettuce Boats
Lay butter lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
Place 2–3 salmon cubes in each leaf.
Spoon a dollop of creamy cottage herb sauce over the salmon.
Garnish and Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for squeezing over the salmon bites.
Tips & Variations
Salmon Alternatives: You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod, mahi-mahi, or even cooked shrimp for a variation.
Leaf Options: If butter lettuce isn’t available, use romaine, iceberg, or even large spinach leaves as boats.
Herb Sauce Variations: Add a teaspoon of olive oil, a pinch of garlic powder, or a little Greek yogurt to the cottage herb sauce for extra creaminess and flavor.
Spice Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the salmon seasoning for a slight heat.
Make Ahead: Prepare the herb sauce in advance and store in the fridge. Cook salmon just before serving for optimal texture.
Toppings: Garnish with thinly sliced radishes, chopped green onions, or capers for extra crunch and flavor.
Low-Carb Meal Prep: These lettuce boats can be made in bulk for meal prep; store salmon and sauce separately and assemble just before eating to maintain crisp lettuce.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cutting into cubes to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the herb sauce and wash the lettuce in advance. Cook the salmon just before serving to keep it tender and flavorful.
Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of searing?
A: Yes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake salmon cubes on a parchment-lined sheet for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the salmon seasoning for extra heat.
Q: How should leftovers be stored?
A: Store cooked salmon and herb sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not assemble lettuce boats until ready to eat.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: ~220
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: ~280mg
(Values may vary depending on amount of oil, seasonings, and cottage cheese used.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Lime Pepper Salmon Bites Lettuce Boats are a light, fresh, and protein-rich dish perfect for a low-carb lunch, appetizer, or dinner. The tender, flavorful salmon paired with crisp butter lettuce and a creamy cottage herb sauce delivers a balance of textures and bright Mediterranean flavors. Quick to prepare, versatile, and customizable, this recipe is ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining.