Celebration Salmon Salad – Clara quick dinners

Celebration Salmon Salad is a vibrant, elegant dish that brings together perfectly cooked salmon, crisp greens, colorful veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Ideal for festive gatherings or when you want something fresh yet indulgent, this salad is a showstopper that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect blend of nourishing and celebratory. You get protein-rich, pan-seared salmon paired with crunchy vegetables and a bold, creamy dressing. It’s easy to prep ahead, serve on a large platter, and customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party, brunch, or a special lunch, it’s guaranteed to wow your guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the 999 Island-style Dressing:

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Minced white onion
• Lemon juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Hot sauce
• Pressed garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper
• Chopped cornichons
• Finely chopped hard-boiled egg

For the Salad:

• Salmon fillets
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Mixed salad greens
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, sliced
• Marinated red onions (plus some of their oil)
• Pepperoncini
• Niçoise or Kalamata olives
• Avocado slices
• Microgreens (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, minced onion, lemon juice, vinegar, hot sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the cornichons and hard-boiled egg. Chill until ready to use.
2. Cook the Salmon:
   Season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon, skin-side down, for about 3–4 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes or until done to your liking. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   On a large serving platter, arrange the greens and drizzle lightly with oil from the marinated onions. Top with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, pepperoncini, olives, avocado, and microgreens.
4. Add the Salmon:
   Place the cooked salmon fillets on top. Serve with the dressing on the side or drizzled over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Salmon: Grill instead of pan-sear for a smoky flavor.
• Different Protein: Swap the salmon for grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip sweet additions and add extra greens and healthy fats.
• Crunch Boost: Add roasted chickpeas, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salmon, salad, and dressing separately in the fridge.
• Reheating: Gently reheat salmon in a skillet or enjoy cold.
• Make Ahead: Prep all ingredients and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes, for a quicker version. Just drain and flake it over the salad.

What type of salmon is best?

Fresh wild-caught is ideal, but farm-raised or frozen (thawed) fillets work too.

Can I make the dressing ahead?

Yes, and it actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

What greens work best?

A mix of arugula, baby spinach, and romaine gives the best texture.

Can I substitute the dressing?

Sure! Try a lemon vinaigrette, yogurt dressing, or creamy dill sauce.

Is this salad meal-prep friendly?

Yes—keep the components separate and assemble fresh portions throughout the week.

Can I add grains?

Quinoa, couscous, or wild rice make it even heartier.

Is it keto-friendly?

Yes, with minor adjustments (like skipping ketchup in the dressing).

Can I bake the salmon?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

What can I serve it with?

Warm bread, roasted potatoes, or a simple soup make great sides.

Conclusion

Celebration Salmon Salad is a stunning, delicious dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or just a fancy-feeling weeknight meal. With its fresh ingredients, creamy dressing, and rich salmon, it’s a balanced plate full of texture, color, and bold flavor. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes—and it’s just as easy to make.

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