Get ready for a refreshing burst of flavors with this Salmon, Avocado and Watercress Salad recipe! Not only does this dish look vibrant and inviting, but it also tastes just as good as it looks. Healthy and packed with nutrition, it combines the smooth richness of avocados with the tangy crispness of watercress, rounded out by the succulent, flaky salmon.
This salad is a perfect pick for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a side dish. In a few simple steps, you can make this fantastic salad right in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
A Harmony of Flavors and Nutrients: This salad is an absolute delight for the senses. The buttery texture of avocados perfectly complements the peppery taste of watercress and the savory salmon. These ingredients not only bring a mix of flavors but also a myriad of nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, avocados provide healthy monounsaturated fats, and watercress delivers an abundance of vitamins and minerals. This combination makes this salad a wholesome, balanced meal that can satisfy your palate and nutritional needs.
Versatility and Convenience: The other winning feature of this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can prepare it in less than 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy days. Plus, you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. No watercress? Swap it for spinach or arugula. Want to add more crunch? Sprinkle in some toasted almonds or sesame seeds. Need more protein? Top it with a hard-boiled egg. This recipe encourages you to be creative while still delivering a delicious and nutritious meal every time.
Ingredients
Salmon - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this flavorful fish is an excellent source of protein. Try to find wild-caught salmon for the best taste and nutrition. If you can't find fresh salmon, you could use smoked salmon or even canned salmon as a substitute.
Avocado - This creamy fruit adds healthy monounsaturated fats and a smooth texture to the salad. You can use ripe Hass avocados. If avocados aren't available, a dollop of guacamole or a handful of chopped green olives can do the trick.
Watercress - This leafy green brings a peppery kick to the salad and is packed with nutrients. Arugula or baby spinach can be used as a replacement if watercress is hard to find.
Lemon - A squeeze of this citrus adds a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the salmon and avocado. Lime could be used as an alternative.
Olive Oil - Used for dressing, it lends a depth of flavor and healthy fats. You could use avocado oil or grapeseed oil as alternatives.
Tips
- Make sure your avocado is ripe but not overly so. It should be firm yet give slightly when pressed.
- If using canned salmon, drain it well to prevent a soggy salad.
- For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- The dressing is simple – just lemon and olive oil. However, you can add a bit of honey or Dijon mustard for an extra punch.
- If you are not serving immediately, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
How to Serve
This salmon, avocado, and watercress salad can be served as a stand-alone dish due to its combination of proteins, healthy fats, and fresh greens. It's perfect for a light lunch or a nutritious dinner.
- Serve it on a large platter for a family-style meal, allowing everyone to serve themselves. It could also be individually plated for a more formal dining experience.
- Alternatively, you could serve it inside a hollowed-out avocado half for a visually impressive and fun presentation.
- Pair it with a slice of crusty whole grain bread to make it a more filling meal, or alongside a clear soup for a multi-course dinner.
Similar Recipes
Salmon Salad
Ingredients
- 2 fresh salmon fillets
- 2 ripe avocados diced
- 2 cups of watercress washed and dried
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until done to your liking. Let it cool and flake into large pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the watercress, diced avocado, and flaked salmon.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
• If using canned salmon, drain it well to prevent a soggy salad.
• For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• The dressing is simple – just lemon and olive oil. However, you can add a bit of honey or Dijon mustard for an extra punch.
• If you are not serving immediately, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.