Salmon Caesar Salad Recipe
Savor the perfect Salmon Caesar Salad with grilled salmon, crisp lettuce, and creamy dressing. A healthy, flavorful dish ready in just 25 minutes!
Equipment
- Grill Pan or Skillet: Ideal for achieving perfectly seared salmon with a delicious, smoky char.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For chopping lettuce, slicing salmon, and preparing other ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls A few medium-sized bowls for tossing the salad and mixing the dressing.
- Salad Spinner: Ensures your romaine lettuce is clean and crisp without excess moisture.
- Whisk or Fork Perfect for emulsifying the dressing to a creamy consistency.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the salmon and tossing the salad without bruising the greens.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets 2 medium-sized: Opt for wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
- Romaine Lettuce 1 large head: Crisp and fresh, it’s the ideal base for this salad.
- Parmesan Cheese ¼ cup, freshly grated: Adds a nutty, salty touch that elevates every bite.
- Croutons 1 cup: Choose store-bought for convenience or make your own for extra crunch and flavor.
For the Dressing:
- Garlic Cloves 2, minced: A classic Caesar dressing essential.
- Dijon Mustard 1 teaspoon: Brings a subtle tanginess to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice 2 tablespoons: Freshly squeezed for a zesty, vibrant kick.
- Worcestershire Sauce 1 teaspoon: Adds depth and umami.
- Anchovy Fillets 2, finely chopped: Optional, but they’re the secret to an authentic Caesar dressing.
- Olive Oil ⅓ cup: Provides a silky texture and rich flavor.
- Greek Yogurt 2 tablespoons: A lighter alternative to mayonnaise for creaminess.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry Tomatoes ½ cup, halved: For a pop of sweetness and color.
- Capers 1 tablespoon: Adds a tangy, briny flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy and indulgent for an extra twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Salmon
- Prepare the Fillets: Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and a touch of lemon juice.
- Cook to Perfection: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip gently and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and finely chopped anchovies.
- Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in Greek yogurt for creaminess, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust acidity or seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base
- Wash the Greens: Thoroughly rinse the romaine lettuce and use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl.
- Add Texture: Toss in crunchy croutons and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Top with Salmon: Break the cooked salmon into large, flaky pieces and arrange them over the salad base.
- Drizzle the Dressing: Evenly pour the creamy Caesar dressing over the salad, ensuring all components are well-coated without being overly saturated.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Garnish: For an extra touch, sprinkle the salad with additional Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or a handful of capers.
- Serve and Enjoy: Present the salad on a platter or in individual bowls. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1200mg