Mediterranean Salmon Salad with Avocado, Feta, Olives, and Cucumber

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 12 minutes   |   Total Time: 27 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Mediterranean salmon salad recipe with avocado feta olives and cucumber is a fresh and wholesome meal loaded with flaky salmon, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese. Inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors, this colorful salad provides plenty of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables. Finished with a bright lemon herb dressing, it's perfect for lunch, dinner, or healthy meal prep. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this salad brings restaurant-quality freshness to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each / 170 g each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (1.5 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)

For the Salad:

• 6 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens (180 g)
• 1 large avocado, sliced (200 g)
• 1 cucumber, sliced (200 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (75 g)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (75 g)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (40 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (10 g)

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (1 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the salmon:
   Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook the salmon:
   Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the salmon for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Let rest for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the vegetables:
   Chop the lettuce, slice the cucumber and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
4. Make the dressing:
   Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.
5. Assemble the salad:
   Place the lettuce in a large bowl and top with cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
6. Add the salmon:
   Place the cooked salmon over the salad and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
7. Serve:
   Drizzle with the lemon herb dressing and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Cook salmon just until it flakes easily to keep it moist.
• Add the avocado right before serving to maintain its freshness.
• Kalamata olives provide authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Serve with warm pita bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I grill the salmon instead?
Yes. Grilled salmon adds a delicious smoky flavor and works perfectly in this salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Store the dressing separately and add the avocado just before serving.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even Parmesan cheese are great alternatives.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate and add fresh avocado before serving.

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