Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing – Omega-3 Rich & Bright

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who loves discovering meals that are as nourishing as they are delicious. One of my go-to recipes when I want something fresh, light, and packed with nutrients is this Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing. The crisp greens, juicy segments of citrus, and perfectly seared salmon come together in a dish that feels gourmet yet simple enough for any day of the week. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying while delivering incredible health benefits in every bite.

Overview of Seared Salmon Salad

The Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing is a balanced meal that brings together the richness of omega-3 salmon with the bright tang of citrus and crisp vegetables. Golden seared salmon fillets sit atop a bed of mixed greens, avocado slices, cucumbers, and oranges, finished with a zesty dressing made from fresh lemon and orange juice. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and effortless, perfect for weekday lunches or light dinners. Each bite offers a refreshing contrast of textures—tender fish, crunchy greens, and tangy citrus.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect Technique: Searing salmon creates a crispy exterior while keeping the flesh tender.
• Flavor Balance: The rich salmon is cut with the brightness of citrus.
• Time-Saving: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.
• Fresh Appeal: Combines restaurant-quality presentation with simple steps.
• Flexible: Can be made with seasonal greens or fruit swaps.

Health Benefits

• Omega-3 Rich: Salmon boosts heart and brain health.
• Vitamin-Packed: Citrus fruits provide vitamin C for immunity.
• Fiber Boost: Mixed greens and avocado support digestion.
• Antioxidants: Colorful vegetables protect against inflammation.
• Balanced Nutrition: Protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce in one dish.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 Oz each, skin-on preferred)
• 6 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 oranges, segmented
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts

For the Citrus Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Seared Salmon Salad

Start with the dressing: whisk olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.

For the salmon, season fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high with a drizzle of oil. Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes more until just opaque.

In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, and orange segments. Top with avocado slices, nuts, and seared salmon. Drizzle with citrus dressing and serve immediately.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Whisk briskly until emulsified and slightly thickened. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Season the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This ensures a better sear. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper. Allow them to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes.
3. Sear the Salmon: Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook without moving for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown. Carefully flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon reaches medium doneness with a tender, moist center. Remove from skillet and let rest.
4. Prepare the Salad Base: On a large serving platter or individual bowls, arrange the salad greens. Scatter thin cucumber slices, red onion, and citrus segments across the greens.
5. Slice and Add Avocado: Cut the avocado just before serving to avoid browning. Arrange slices across the salad for a creamy contrast.
6. Assemble the Salad: Place seared salmon fillets on top of the salad. Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch and nutty depth.
7. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the citrus dressing generously over the entire salad, reserving some for extra at the table. Serve immediately while salmon is still warm.

This step-by-step method highlights the crisp sear on salmon while balancing freshness and vibrant flavors in the salad base. Each element plays a role: crispy salmon, juicy citrus, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 320mg

Serving with Seared Salmon Salad

This Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing is best served immediately, with the salmon still warm and crisp. Arrange it on a wide platter for a dramatic, restaurant-style presentation, or serve in individual bowls for portioned meals. Garnish with extra citrus wedges and a sprinkle of herbs like dill or cilantro for freshness. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, sparkling water, or green tea. This dish works as a light dinner, an elegant lunch, or even a centerpiece at a spring or summer gathering.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Extra Zest: Add lime juice or zest to the dressing for more citrus punch.
• Protein Swap: Replace salmon with grilled shrimp or seared tuna.
• Leafy Base: Swap mixed greens with arugula or baby spinach.
• Nuts & Seeds: Try pumpkin seeds or sesame seeds for extra crunch.
• Meal Prep: Cook salmon in advance, refrigerate, and serve chilled for a next-day lunch.
• Creamy Twist: Whisk a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing for creaminess.

The Bottom Line

The Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus Dressing is a dish that celebrates balance: rich salmon, bright citrus, and fresh greens, all tied together with a light, tangy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and bursting with health benefits. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe offers the elegance of fine dining with the simplicity of a weeknight meal. For me, it’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring—it can be colorful, satisfying, and joyful. Add this to your kitchen rotation, and it will quickly become a favorite.