Step into the world of French cuisine with this vibrant Salmon Niçoise Salad. This dish not only showcases the delicate flavors of fresh salmon but also embraces a medley of vegetables and a delicious garlic-herb dressing. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a healthy meal that’s packed with flavor, whether you’re preparing a seafood salad for a gathering or wanting to indulge in a wholesome lunch today. The combination of ingredients brings a touch of elegance to your table, reminiscent of a classic French salad.
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Imagine enjoying a dish that beautifully balances the rich taste of teriyaki salmon alongside crisp greens and the tangy notes of a traditional Niçoise dressing. This recipe is versatile enough to satisfy cravings for both fish salad and vegetarian alternatives, making it a go-to choice for everyone at your table. Whether you’re in the mood for a light meal or a filling option, this salad will not disappoint.
A Delightful and Wholesome Salmon Niçoise Salad
This Salmon Niçoise Salad features tender, flaky salmon complemented by green beans, ripe tomatoes, and quartered hard-boiled eggs, all tossed in a flavorful garlic-herb dressing. The mix of textures and flavors creates a satisfying dish that can easily be served as a main course or a side.
Visual appeal plays a significant role in this salad. The vibrant greens juxtaposed with the pink salmon and bright cherry tomatoes create a feast for the eyes. This makes it an excellent choice for dinner parties or casual meals at home, ensuring that guests and family alike will be drawn to the table.
Preparing the Salmon
The salmon is the star of this dish, and its preparation is crucial. Begin by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and pepper before cooking them over medium heat, allowing them to develop a lovely golden crust. The key is to avoid overcooking to maintain that delicate, flaky texture.
Once cooked, allow the salmon to cool slightly. This step not only enhances the flavor but also makes it easier to flake apart when adding to the salad. For those who enjoy experimenting, consider using teriyaki salmon for a unique twist that elevates this classic French salad.
Blanching the Green Beans
Blanching green beans is an essential step that preserves their vibrant color and crispness. A quick boil followed by an ice bath stops the cooking process, ensuring they remain tender yet crunchy. This technique enhances the overall texture of the salad, adding a satisfying bite.
When combined with the other ingredients, the green beans contribute a fresh, slightly earthy flavor that balances well with the richness of the salmon and the acidity of the dressing. It’s this careful attention to detail that sets the dish apart.
The Garlic-Herb Dressing
A flavorful garlic-herb dressing is critical in tying all the components of the salad together. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard to create a balanced vinaigrette. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add your preferred herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
This dressing is not just limited to the salmon Niçoise salad; it can also enhance other dishes, such as a tuna Niçoise salad or even a vegetarian Nicoise option. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile addition to your salad recipes healthy repertoire.
Assembling the Salad
When it comes time to assemble the salad, start with a base of mixed greens, adding the blanched green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and sliced red onion. These ingredients work in harmony to create a colorful, inviting dish.
Flake the cooled salmon over the top and add the quartered hard-boiled eggs for protein and creaminess. The final touch is the dressing; drizzle it generously over the salad and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Salmon Niçoise Salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. Serve it with a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy an extra zing of citrus, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
In addition to being a delightful meal for lunch or dinner, it can also serve as a light and refreshing option for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or merely looking for healthy dinner ideas, this salad stands out as a delicious choice that will certainly satisfy.
A Delightful and Wholesome Salmon Niçoise Salad
This Salmon Niçoise Salad features tender, flaky salmon complemented by green beans, ripe tomatoes, and hard-boiled eggs, all tossed in a flavorful garlic-herb dressing. The mix of textures and flavors creates a satisfying dish that can easily be served as a main course or a side.
Perfectly seasoned and presented, this salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic choice for dinner parties or casual meals at home.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon: Preheat your grill or pan over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Blanch the Green Beans: While the salmon is cooking, bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3 minutes until tender yet crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion. Flake the cooked salmon over the top and add the quartered hard-boiled eggs.
- Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 23g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
