There’s something about the combination of creamy avocado and smoky salmon that makes my taste buds do a little happy dance. Picture this: a vibrant bowl filled with luscious greens, perfectly ripe avocados, and ribbons of silky smoked salmon drizzled with a zesty Dijon honey vinaigrette. It’s like a party on your plate where each ingredient brings its own groove to the dance floor.
I remember the first time I whipped up this Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette for brunch with friends. The moment they took that first bite—their eyes widened in delight! It was an experience worth capturing in culinary history. Now we gather regularly, fighting over who gets the last scoop of this flavorful masterpiece.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare and is bursting with flavor
- The combination of textures from the creamy avocado and crispy greens is simply divine
- Stunning enough for company but simple enough for a weeknight meal
- Enjoy it as an appetizer or light lunch; it adapts beautifully to any occasion
Friends still joke about how I nearly fought off a seagull at the beach once when I brought this salad along for a picnic—it was worth every hilarious moment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they’ll add creaminess to your salad.
- Smoked Salmon: Look for high-quality smoked salmon; it should have a rich color and aroma.
- Mixed Greens: Use a blend of baby spinach and arugula for varied textures and flavors.
- Dijon Mustard: Opt for smooth Dijon mustard; its tanginess elevates the vinaigrette beautifully.
- Honey: Use raw honey for natural sweetness that complements the acidity.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best; it contributes healthy fats and richness to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors; avoid bottled varieties if possible.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously; these essentials enhance all other flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean surface. Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into bite-sized pieces.
Create the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, add the mixed greens followed by your sliced avocados and pieces of smoked salmon. Drizzle half of the vinaigrette over everything.
Gently Combine Ingredients: Using two forks or salad tongs, carefully toss all ingredients together without mashing the avocado too much. You want those beautiful green chunks!
Add More Flavor If Needed: Taste your salad! If you feel it needs more zing, drizzle in additional vinaigrette or season it further with salt and pepper.
Serve Immediately: Plate your beautiful salad with extra slices of avocado on top if desired. Serve right away to enjoy that fresh flavor explosion!
Now you have a stunning Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! Perfect as an appetizer or light lunch—just watch out for those food-stealing seagulls!
You Must Know
- This Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that will make your taste buds dance
- The creamy avocado, smoky salmon, and zesty vinaigrette come together for a delightful meal
- Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your vinaigrette first, allowing the flavors to meld while you chop the salad ingredients. This method ensures freshness and a burst of flavor with every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or swap smoked salmon for grilled chicken or tofu. Adding fresh herbs can elevate the salad’s flavor profile even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan if desired, but this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the most out of your ingredients, always use ripe avocados for creaminess
- Avoid over-dressing your salad; start with less vinaigrette and add more as needed
- Pair this dish with crusty bread for a complete meal experience
Sharing this dish with friends at a picnic was unforgettable; they raved about it and begged for the recipe. It reminded me how food can bring people together.
FAQ
Can I make this Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard in the vinaigrette?
You may use whole grain mustard or honey mustard as excellent alternatives.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad is naturally gluten-free and perfect for dietary restrictions.
Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad with Dijon Honey Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in this refreshing Avocado Smoked Salmon Salad, featuring creamy avocado, smoky salmon, and a zesty Dijon honey vinaigrette—perfect for any meal or gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 oz high-quality smoked salmon
- 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach and arugula)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette: Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add mixed greens, diced avocados, and smoked salmon. Drizzle half of the vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss gently: Use forks or tongs to combine ingredients without mashing the avocado.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add more vinaigrette or seasoning if desired.
- Serve immediately: Plate the salad and enjoy fresh for an explosion of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
