Zesty Orange Ginger Vinaigrette with Seared Salmon Salad

If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this seared salmon salad drizzled with an orange ginger vinaigrette is just the ticket. The combination of flavors is refreshing and vibrant, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine perfectly seared salmon resting atop a bed of mixed greens, complemented by creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and sweet mandarin slices. The citrusy zing from the vinaigrette elevates this dish, balancing the richness of the salmon beautifully. This is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients.

This recipe is particularly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a tasty weeknight meal, this salad will impress. Plus, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Vibrant Ingredients for a Healthy Meal

This salad features a delightful array of fresh ingredients, each contributing to both flavor and nutrition.

The mixed salad greens serve as a bright base, providing essential vitamins and a satisfying crunch. Adding slices of creamy avocado introduces healthy fats that enhance the dish’s richness.

Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the sweet mandarin orange segments bring a burst of citrus sweetness. These components create a visually appealing and well-balanced meal.

The Art of Searing Salmon

To achieve the desired texture and flavor, searing salmon fillets requires attention to detail. Properly heating your skillet is essential; it should be hot enough to create a golden crust without overcooking the fish.

Seasoning the salmon simply with salt and pepper allows the natural flavors to shine through. Cooking skin-side down first helps retain moisture and achieve a perfect sear. The result is a succulent fillet that complements the freshness of the salad.

Citrusy Orange Ginger Vinaigrette

The vinaigrette is a crucial component of this dish, tying together all the elements with its bright, zesty flavor. A blend of olive oil, fresh orange juice, grated ginger, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup creates a harmonious dressing.

Whisking these ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a glossy vinaigrette that beautifully coats the salad. Drizzling this over the assembled ingredients enhances the overall experience with every bite.

Assembly and Presentation

Assembling the salad is a straightforward yet enjoyable process. Start by layering the mixed greens on a plate, followed by the avocado and cucumber. The colorful mandarin segments should be scattered for visual appeal, inviting the diner to indulge.

Finally, place the perfectly seared salmon on top, allowing its sheen to catch the eye. This presentation not only looks appetizing but also highlights the freshness of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a light side, such as whole grain bread or a cup of soup, to create a more substantial meal. It’s a versatile dish suitable for various occasions, from casual lunches to elegant dinners.

For those looking to enhance the dining experience, consider serving it alongside a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing herbal tea. These beverages complement the vibrant flavors without overpowering them.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

This salad not only tastes delightful but also boasts numerous health benefits. The combination of salmon and avocado provides a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and overall wellness.

With fewer than 500 calories per serving, this dish is a smart choice for anyone mindful of their dietary intake. The variety of vegetables adds fiber and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option.

Delicious Seared Salmon Salad with Orange Ginger Vinaigrette

This vibrant salad features succulent seared salmon paired with fresh mixed greens, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and sweet mandarin orange slices. The citrusy orange ginger vinaigrette adds a zesty kick that ties all the flavors together, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, grated ginger, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Sear the Salmon: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
3. Assemble the Salad: On a large plate or bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced avocado, cucumber, and mandarin segments. Top with the seared salmon.
4. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the orange ginger vinaigrette over the salad and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavors.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 2
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g