Smoked Salmon Salad Bowl

This smoked salmon salad is the perfect dish whenever you crave a meal but don’t have time to cook. Crisp baby greens, soft-boiled eggs, and smoked salmon, lightly drizzled with the most delicious creamy caper chive dressing.

Ingredients and substitutions

Making salad with smoked salmon is super easy and healthy! It’s packed with good fats and low-carb ingredients that are not only tasty but also great for you. Here are what you need:

• Soft-boiled eggs: Provide a creamy texture and rich flavor that contrasts nicely with the crisp greens.
• Mixed baby greens (butter lettuce, mesclun, baby romaine): Serve as a fresh, crunchy base and can be varied with alternatives like baby spinach, frisee, radicchio, arugula, diced tatsoi, or yu choy for different textures and flavors.
• Smoked salmon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and can be substituted with lox for a similar cured taste.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
• Lemon juice: Offers a bright, acidic touch to balance the richness of the salmon and eggs.
• Dijon mustard: Contributes a tangy depth to the dressing, binding the flavors together.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps in emulsifying the dressing, giving it a smooth texture.
• Red wine vinegar: Introduces a sharp acidity that lightens the dressing and complements the fatty salmon.
• Shallot: Brings a mild, sweet onion flavor that adds complexity to the dressing.
• Capers: Provide pops of briny, salty flavor that contrast with the creamy elements.
• Chives: Offer a slight oniony bite which enhances the overall freshness of the salad.
• Extra Virgin Olive oil: Helps emulsify the dressing, making it creamy and ensuring the flavors blend beautifully.

How to make smoked salmon salad

Bring a pot of water to boil, lower the heat and simmer eggs for 6 ½ minutes in gently boiling water. Cool in room water to peel easily.

Alternatively, try Air Fryer Soft Boiled Eggs for an easy air fryer method to get perfect jammy eggs.

Salad greens

Choose a mix of your favorite baby greens such as butter lettuce, mesclun, or baby romaine. Rinse the greens gently under cold water if needed, then pat them dry or use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Place the greens in a large salad bowl.

Smoked salmon

Take the smoked salmon and, if the pieces are too large, gently tear them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Evenly distribute the salmon over the greens in the salad bowl.

Alternative:

If smoked salmon isn’t available, you can use frozen salmon cooked straight from frozen in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 12–15 minutes or until fully cooked. Alternatively, you can use air fryer salmon bites with the same creamy caper chive dressing for a perfect topping on this salad.

Dressing

In a measuring cup or a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced shallot, chopped capers, minced chives, and a pinch of coarse sea salt. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking to create an emulsion. Adjust the seasoning to taste and store the dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

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Topping variations

Add Feta cheese, fresh dill sprigs, edamame, avocado, cucumber, thin sliced radishes, or red onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Different dressings for smoked salmon

Choose between vinaigrette-based or creamy textured dressings, both designed to complement the delicate flavors of smoked salmon:

• Vinaigrette based dressing: Miso ginger dressing: A zesty dressing that combines the warm spice of ginger with the umami depth of miso. Sweet basil citrus dressing: A refreshing mix of citrus zest and sweet basil for a light, aromatic flavor.
• Creamy textured dressing: Tahini dill salad dressing (has no mayo): A creamy, nutty dressing with the fresh, herbal notes of dill. Ranch yogurt salad dressing (use yogurt): A tangy version of the classic ranch, lighter in texture but full of flavor. Japanese roasted sesame dressing: Rich and creamy with a toasted sesame flavor that brings an Asian twist to your salad.

Tip: To avoid mayo, opt for a light olive oil vinaigrette dressing or swap mayo with unsweetened Greek yogurt for a creamy yet light dressing.

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Make ahead and store

Make-Ahead: Boil your eggs in advance. Check out our guide on “7 Different Ways to Make Air Fryer Eggs” for options from hard-boiled to soft and jammy. Prepare the dressing beforehand to save time. Just stir it well before using.

Storage: Once you’ve opened the smoked salmon package, transfer any leftovers to the fridge. Be sure to consume the salmon within 3–4 days for the best flavor and safety. The dressing should stay fresh for 7 days in the fridge.

What goes well with cold smoke salmon

Cold smoked salmon is versatile enough to serve as a main dish or as a flavorful side. Whether you pair it with pasta or complement it with other main dishes, it adds a luxurious touch to your meal.

• Pair with Noodles/Pasta: Broccoli pesto pasta combines beautifully with the smoky flavors of salmon, offering a hearty yet refreshing taste. Canned tuna spaghetti works well when you want a seafood-themed pasta dish that’s simple and satisfying. Gochujang pasta adds a spicy kick, contrasting nicely with the smooth and subtle taste of smoked salmon.
• Serve with Main Dishes: Kalbi (Korean short ribs) offer a rich, meaty flavor that balances the lightness of smoked salmon. Bang bang chicken skewers provide a spicy and creamy complement to the delicate salmon. Honey sriracha chicken brings a sweet and spicy element that pairs well with the cool, smoky salmon.

FAQs

Are smoked salmon cooked? Smoked salmon isn’t cooked with heat but cured and smoked, giving it a soft, raw-like texture that’s fully ready to eat.

What’s a good dressing for smoked salmon salad? A light olive oil vinaigrette or a creamy dill dressing works beautifully with smoked salmon, complementing its richness with bright, tangy, or herby flavors.

Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked salmon in this salad? Yes, canned salmon can be used as a more budget-friendly alternative, though it will have a different texture and flavor profile.

How can I make this salad ahead of time without it getting soggy? Prepare the components separately and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Is smoked salmon already cooked?

Smoked salmon is cured and smoked, not heat-cooked, but it's fully safe and ready to eat straight from the package.

→ What dressing pairs well with smoked salmon?

A creamy dill dressing or light vinaigrette balances the richness of salmon with fresh, tangy flavors.

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked?

Yes, canned salmon is a great alternative. It’s more budget-friendly but has a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Keep greens, eggs, and dressing separate until ready to serve. Assemble just before eating to avoid sogginess.

→ What can I serve with smoked salmon salad?

Try it with pasta like broccoli pesto or spicy gochujang noodles, or pair with bold mains like Korean ribs or honey sriracha chicken.

→ Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?

Yes! Swap mayo with Greek yogurt or use a vinaigrette for a lighter, mayo-free dressing option.