Are you looking for a salmon salad recipe? Summer is the season for sunshine, outdoor fun, and, most importantly, vibrant, refreshing meals that make you feel good inside and out. Enter the Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad, a dish that combines the freshness of summer strawberries with the richness of perfectly seasoned, air-fried salmon. It’s the kind of salad that makes you forget all the sad desk salads you’ve endured throughout the year. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavor, color, and everything we love about summer.
The Origin of Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad: A Delicious Accident
Like many great things in life, the Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad was born from a happy accident in the kitchen. Picture this: A scorching summer day, a fridge full of random ingredients, and a desire for something light yet satisfying. A leftover piece of salmon was calling out for a makeover, and those ripe strawberries on the counter were just begging to be used. So, in a moment of culinary inspiration, the salmon met the strawberries, and the result was nothing short of magic.
The first bite was a revelation—a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, with the strawberries and salmon playing off each other in ways I never expected. Toss in some feta, sliced almonds, and a handful of honey-roasted pecans and cranberries, and suddenly, this salad went from “What can I throw together for lunch?” to “This needs to be shared with the world!”
Who Will Love the Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad?
This salad is for anyone who loves the idea of eating healthy without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a protein-packed meal, a busy professional in need of a quick lunch that doesn’t come out of a takeout container, or a foodie on the hunt for the next big flavor combo, this salad has something for everyone. It’s also perfect for those who love hosting summer get-togethers and want to impress their guests with something that looks as good as it tastes.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and meals that feel indulgent yet wholesome, then this salad is going to be your new summer staple.
Why This Recipe Works:
The success of this Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the strawberries perfectly complements the savory, seasoned salmon, while the feta adds a creamy, tangy element that ties everything together. The sliced almonds and honey-roasted pecans add the perfect crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. The Briana’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette brings a light, tangy sweetness that elevates the whole dish, while the Cavender’s Greek Seasoning and Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning give the salmon a flavorful kick that’s both unexpected and irresistible.
By air-frying the salmon, you get a crispy, flavorful exterior without the need for heavy oils or a smoky kitchen. The method ensures that the salmon is cooked perfectly—moist and flaky on the inside, with a deliciously crispy outside. It’s a healthier cooking method that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Strawberries: While fresh strawberries are the star of this salad, you can swap them out for other fruits if you’re feeling adventurous. Try fresh raspberries, blackberries, or even sliced peaches for a different take on the flavor profile.
- Feta Cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese or blue cheese crumbles would also work well here. They’ll add that same creamy tang but with their unique twist.
- Sliced Almonds: If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds. Just make sure you keep that crunch factor!
- Honey Roasted Pecans and Cranberries: Not into pecans or cranberries? Swap them out for candied walnuts and dried cherries for a slightly different flavor profile that’s just as delicious.
- Briana’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette: If you can’t find Briana’s, any light, fruity vinaigrette will do. A raspberry vinaigrette or even a light balsamic would work beautifully.
- Air-Fried Salmon: If you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry! You can bake the salmon in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Ingredients (Without Measurements):
- Fresh strawberries
- Air-fried salmon
- Briana’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette
- Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning
- Cavender’s Greek Seasoning
- Olive oil
- Feta cheese
- Sliced almonds
- Mrs. Cubbinson’s Honey Roasted Pecans and Cranberries
RECIPE
Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Cavender’s Greek Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons Mrs. Cubbinson’s Honey Roasted Pecans and Cranberries
- 3-4 cups mixed greens like spinach, arugula, and baby kale
- 1/4 cup Briana’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Season the salmon fillets with Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning and Cavender’s Greek Seasoning. Drizzle with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere.
- Air-fry the salmon fillets for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a crispy exterior. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the salad: Start with a base of mixed greens, then layer on the sliced strawberries, feta cheese, sliced almonds, and honey-roasted pecans and cranberries.
- Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad.
- Drizzle with Briana’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Salad Recipe:
1. Can I bake the salmon instead of air-frying it?
Absolutely! If you prefer baking, simply season the salmon as directed and bake it at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Baking will give you a slightly different texture, but it’s just as delicious.
2. How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. The color should be opaque with a slight pink center. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
3. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking. For best results, thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight or under cold running water if you’re in a hurry.
4. What’s the best way to store leftover salmon?
If you have leftover salmon, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold on salads or reheat it gently in the microwave. Just be careful not to overcook it when reheating.
5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare most of the components ahead of time, like the salad ingredients and vinaigrette, but it’s best to cook the salmon and assemble the salad right before serving. This ensures the freshest flavor and texture.
FINAL THOUGHTS
There you have it—a Strawberry Salmon Summer Salad that’s not just a meal but an experience. It’s a dish that embodies everything we love about summer, from the fresh, juicy strawberries to the perfectly seasoned salmon that’s as light as it is satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a quick weekday lunch or a show-stopping side for a summer BBQ, this salad is sure to impress and delight.
So go ahead, take a bite out of summer with this refreshing and flavorful salad. And don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite way to enjoy salmon! Make sure you pair this with one of my favorite cocktails! Also, like my Facebook page here.
