Description
This salad brings together a delightful combination of fresh ingredients, including smoked salmon, creamy avocado, crisp arugula, and a variety of optional add-ins like capers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. The ingredients are tossed together in a tangy and flavorful dressing made with olive oil, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. The result is a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, offering a refreshing balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 4 cups arugula (washed and dried)
- 4 oz smoked salmon (sliced or flaked into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 ripe avocado (pitted, peeled, and sliced or cubed)
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons capers (drained, optional for a briny kick)
- 1/4 cup cucumber (thinly sliced, optional for crunch)
- For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh dill or parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Toasted sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning
Equipment
- Large salad bowl or platter
- Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
- Whisk or fork
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using) until well combined.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the acidity or sweetness by adding more lemon juice or honey as needed. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl or on a platter, spread out the arugula as the base.
- Arrange the smoked salmon pieces evenly over the arugula.
- Add the sliced or cubed avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers (if using) on top of the greens and salmon.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or a dash of everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an additional squeeze of freshness.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a touch of lemon vinaigrette or a balsamic glaze just before serving. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or elegant starter and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a chilled glass of white wine. Feel free to add soft-boiled eggs or capers for a heartier twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Assembling
- Cuisine: Fusion
Keywords: Smoked Salmon, Avocado, and Arugula Salad