Name: Grilled Salmon and Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 avocado, sliced; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tomatoes, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing); Salt to taste (for dressing)

Why You’ll Love Grilled Salmon and Avocado Salad Recipe

This recipe is bright, healthy, and packed with protein and healthy fats. The grilled salmon adds hearty flavor, while the avocado and crisp vegetables make each bite refreshing. The homemade cumin‑lime cilantro dressing ties everything together with a tangy, slightly spicy kick. It’s easy to customize to your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

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

Spicy cumin lime cilantro dressing:

2 medium limes, juiced
3–4 tablespoons olive oil
1 hot pepper, seeded and diced (swap for sweet pepper if preferred)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
Salt to taste

For the grilled salmon:

About 2 pounds salmon, cut into 4–8 pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the salad:

8–10 cups lettuce or salad greens
1 large or 2 small avocados, pitted and sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cucumber, sliced
Cherry tomatoes, sliced
Cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Directions

Make the dressing: Add lime juice, olive oil, diced hot pepper, ground cumin, cilantro, and salt to a jar. Close tightly and shake until well blended. Set aside or chill until ready to use.
Prepare the salmon: Mix salt, coriander, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Rub salmon pieces with olive oil, then coat with the spice mix.
Grill the salmon: Preheat your grill. Grill the salmon until cooked through and slightly charred at the edges to your preference.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, avocado, red onion, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Place the grilled salmon on top.
Dress and serve: Drizzle the cilantro‑lime dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly or serve plated individually.

Servings and timing

Serves: About 8 as a starter or side salad, or 4 as a main course.
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~25 minutes

Variations

Non‑spicy dressing: Use a sweet pepper instead of hot pepper in the dressing.
Different proteins: Swap salmon for shrimp, scallops, or other grilled fish like halibut or sea bass.
Add grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra heartiness.
Extra veggies: Include sliced bell peppers, radishes, or avocado chunks for more texture.

Storage/Reheating

Salad: Keep dressing separate and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad greens are best added fresh when serving.

Salmon: Refrigerate cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (about 120–140 °C) for 10–12 minutes, or enjoy cold on salads.

FAQs

What kind of salmon is best for this salad?

Use fresh, high‑quality salmon fillets or steaks. Wild salmon is flavorful, but farmed salmon also works well.

Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at about 200 °C for 12–15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado slices with a bit of lime juice before adding them to the salad to slow oxidation.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dressing up to 1 day ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

Is this salad gluten‑free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten‑free.

What can I serve with this salad for a complete meal?

Serve with warm bread, grilled corn, or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?

You can, but homemade dressing enhances freshness and flavor.

How spicy is the dressing?

The spice level depends on the pepper you use. For mild flavor, choose a sweet pepper.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese complements the flavors nicely.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes, grill the salmon and make the dressing ahead, then assemble just before serving.

Conclusion

This grilled salmon and avocado salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With a tangy dressing and healthy ingredients, it’s both satisfying and nutritious — ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining.