Salmon Spinach Salad Recipe

A Simple Weeknight Delight: My Salmon Spinach Salad

As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This salmon spinach salad has become a staple in our household, and it's so easy to adapt to whatever ingredients I have on hand. The combination of flaky grilled salmon, fresh spinach, and a vibrant orange vinaigrette is simply irresistible. It's light yet satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.

The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. Don't have goat cheese? Feta works wonderfully as a substitute. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds – sunflower seeds or slivered almonds would be delicious additions. You can also adjust the amount of vinaigrette to your liking; sometimes I like a little more, sometimes a little less, depending on my mood and the freshness of the spinach.

The Grilling Process: A Few Tips

Grilling the salmon is a key element to this recipe, imparting a smoky flavor that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly. I find that using a paper towel lightly coated with oil helps to prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill. Be sure to cook the salmon until it flakes easily with a fork – this ensures it's cooked through and moist. If you don’t have a grill, you can easily pan-sear or bake the salmon instead.

Beyond the Recipe: A Celebration of Flavor and Flexibility

This salad is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined in a way that elevates the everyday. The bright, citrusy notes of the orange vinaigrette cut through the richness of the salmon, while the spinach provides a healthy dose of greens. The toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch, and the creamy goat cheese (or feta!) provides a beautiful salty counterpoint.

I often find myself making this salad for lunches throughout the week. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option. It's the kind of dish that’s both satisfying and elegant, whether you're serving it to your family or impressing guests. The ease of preparation and the delicious results have made this my go-to salad for years, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites, too.

Serving Suggestions:

This salad stands beautifully on its own, but you can easily enhance it further. Consider adding some cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal. A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some crumbled bacon for a savory twist. The possibilities are endless!

So, grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or your stovetop!), and get ready to enjoy this simple yet extraordinary salmon spinach salad. It's a recipe that’s as versatile and adaptable as it is delicious.

Step-by-step

• Brush salmon with 4 tablespoons orange juice concentrate.
• Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt, paprika and pepper.
• Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, lightly coat the grill rack.
• Grill salmon, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 8-10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
• Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the spinach, orange, green onions and walnuts.
• In a small bowl, whisk the vinegar, oil, garlic, remaining orange juice concentrate and salt.
• Drizzle over salad; toss to coat.
• Divide among plates; sprinkle with cheese.
• Top with salmon.