16 Hearty Salmon Salad Recipes

Salmon is a versatile, nutrient-rich fish that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and flavorful dressings—making it an excellent centerpiece for salads.

Whether you prefer your salmon grilled, roasted, or smoked, these 16 hearty salmon salad recipes are sure to keep you satisfied.

Let’s get in and discover new ways to enjoy this omega–3–packed fish!

1. Classic Salmon Salad

A simple and refreshing Classic Salmon Salad that can be adapted for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or enjoyed straight from the bowl.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked (or use canned salmon, drained)
2. 1/2 cup celery, diced
3. 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
4. 1/2 cup light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
5. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
6. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine salmon, celery, and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir the dressing into the salmon mixture until well coated.
4. Serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in lettuce cups.

2. Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad

A lighter spin on the classic Caesar, this Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad swaps out chicken for protein-packed salmon.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20–25 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. Salt and pepper to taste
3. 1 large romaine lettuce head, chopped
4. 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (opt for a light or homemade version)
5. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
6. 1 cup croutons (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing.
3. Top with grilled salmon.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan and croutons if desired. Serve immediately.

3. Teriyaki Salmon Salad

Sweet and savory flavors combine in this Teriyaki Salmon Salad, which features a crisp bed of greens and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
3. 4 cups mixed greens (or baby spinach)
4. 1 cup sliced cucumbers
5. 1/2 cup shredded carrots
6. 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
2. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Marinate salmon fillets in teriyaki sauce for 10–15 minutes.
2. Bake or pan-sear salmon until cooked (about 12–15 minutes at 400°F or 5–6 minutes per side on the stove).
3. In a large bowl, layer greens, cucumbers, and carrots.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
5. Top the salad with cooked salmon and drizzle with dressing. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

4. Greek Salmon Salad

Bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Salmon Salad incorporates feta, olives, and a lemony dressing for a bright, satisfying meal.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. Salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste
3. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
4. 1 cup cucumber, diced
5. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
6. 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
7. 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
3. 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Grill or bake until cooked through.
2. Toss lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and olives in a large bowl.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients together.
4. Top salad with salmon and feta if desired. Drizzle with dressing.

5. Blackened Salmon Salad

Spicy and flavorful, this Blackened Salmon Salad balances a robust seasoning blend with fresh veggies and a cooling dressing.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 1 tablespoon Cajun or blackening seasoning
3. 4 cups mixed greens
4. 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
5. 1/2 cup diced bell pepper

Dressing (optional):

1. 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
2. 1 tablespoon lime juice
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Coat salmon fillets with blackening seasoning.
2. Sear in a hot skillet for about 3–4 minutes per side until fish flakes easily.
3. Combine greens, corn, and bell pepper in a bowl.
4. If using the yogurt dressing, whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl.
5. Place the salmon on top of the salad and drizzle with dressing if desired.

6. Salmon Niçoise Salad

A twist on the classic French dish, Salmon Niçoise Salad includes tender salmon, crisp veggies, and tangy olives.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 2 eggs, hard-boiled
3. 4 cups mixed greens
4. 1/2 cup blanched green beans
5. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
6. 1/4 cup olives, sliced
7. Salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
3. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and optional herbs de Provence; bake or pan-sear until cooked through.
2. Arrange greens on a plate with halved eggs, green beans, tomatoes, and olives.
3. Top with salmon.
4. Whisk dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad before serving.

7. Salmon and Avocado Salad

Creamy avocado meets tender salmon in this Salmon and Avocado Salad, elevated by a zesty citrus dressing.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 15–20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each), cooked and flaked (use baked or grilled)
2. 1 avocado, diced
3. 4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
4. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons orange juice
2. 1 tablespoon lime juice
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Place greens, tomatoes, and onion in a bowl.
2. Gently fold in cooked salmon and diced avocado.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
4. Drizzle over the salad and serve.

8. Teriyaki Salmon Poke-Style Salad

Inspired by poke bowls, this Teriyaki Salmon Poke-Style Salad features marinated salmon chunks atop fresh veggies and rice (optional).

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 30 minutes (includes marinating)
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 1/2 pound salmon, cubed (use sushi-grade if eating raw or lightly sear if preferred cooked)
2. 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
3. 2 cups cooked brown rice (optional)
4. 2 cups chopped lettuce or cabbage
5. 1/2 cup diced cucumber
6. 1/2 cup shredded carrots
7. 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Marinate salmon cubes in teriyaki sauce for ~15 minutes.
2. If not using sushi-grade salmon, lightly pan-sear or bake until just cooked.
3. Arrange rice (if using), lettuce, cucumber, and carrots in a bowl.
4. Add marinated salmon on top.
5. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

9. Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad

This Smoked Salmon and Arugula Salad is light, savory, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner appetizer.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 4 cups arugula
2. 4 oz smoked salmon, torn into pieces
3. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
2. 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Place arugula, tomatoes, and onion in a salad bowl.
2. Add smoked salmon.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and serve immediately.

10. Salmon and Quinoa Power Salad

For a nutrient-dense meal, this Salmon and Quinoa Power Salad combines wholesome quinoa with lean salmon and plenty of veggies.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup quinoa, uncooked (makes ~3 cups cooked)
2. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
3. Salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste
4. 1 cup diced cucumber
5. 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
6. 2 cups baby spinach

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and any dried herbs you like; bake or grill until cooked.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and spinach.
4. Whisk dressing ingredients together.
5. Flake or slice salmon, add to the salad and drizzle with dressing.

11. Asian Salmon Salad with Ginger-Soy Dressing

A tangy Ginger-Soy Dressing complements the pan-seared salmon and crunchy vegetables in this flavorful dish.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder
3. 4 cups mixed greens or shredded cabbage
4. 1/2 cup shredded carrots
5. 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (low-sodium if possible)
2. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3. 1 teaspoon grated ginger
4. 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pan-sear over medium-high heat for ~4–5 minutes per side or until cooked.
2. Arrange greens, carrots, and peppers in a bowl.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
4. Slice or flake salmon over the salad, then drizzle the dressing on top.

12. Salmon, Strawberry, and Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and a light balsamic dressing offset the richness of salmon in this Salmon, Strawberry, and Spinach Salad.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. Salt and pepper to taste
3. 4 cups baby spinach
4. 1 cup sliced strawberries
5. 2 tablespoons chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Recipe Steps:

1. Season salmon with salt and pepper; bake or pan-sear until cooked (about 4–5 minutes per side).
2. Layer spinach, strawberries, and nuts in a salad bowl.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients until well combined.
4. Add salmon on top of the salad and drizzle with dressing.

13. Warm Salmon and Farro Salad

Chewy farro and fresh veggies form a hearty base for this Warm Salmon and Farro Salad, perfect on cooler evenings.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 1 cup uncooked farro (makes ~2–3 cups cooked)
3. 2 cups baby kale or spinach
4. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing:

1. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

1. Cook farro according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper; bake, grill, or pan-sear until cooked.
3. In a bowl, combine warm farro with kale/spinach, tomatoes, and onion.
4. Whisk together dressing ingredients and pour over the salad.
5. Top with flaked or sliced salmon. Serve warm.

14. Maple-glazed salmon Salad

A sweet yet subtle maple glaze gives this Maple-Glazed Salmon Salad a rich flavor boost, complemented by roasted veggies or fresh greens.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 2 tablespoons maple syrup
3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4. Salt and pepper to taste
5. 4 cups mixed greens
6. 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
7. 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

Recipe Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon on the baking sheet; brush maple-Dijon mixture over top.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily.
5. Meanwhile, arrange greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes in a bowl.
6. Top with glazed salmon and enjoy as is or drizzle with extra dressing of your choice.

15. Salmon Cobb Salad

A seafood twist on the classic Cobb, this Salmon Cobb Salad includes bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and creamy avocado for a hearty meal.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each), cooked (use grilled or baked)
2. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
3. 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
4. 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
5. 1 avocado, sliced
6. 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
7. Dressing of choice (ranch, blue cheese, or a vinaigrette)

Recipe Steps:

1. In a large bowl or on a platter, layer romaine, bacon, eggs, avocado, and tomatoes.
2. Flake or slice cooked salmon and add to the salad.
3. Drizzle with your favorite dressing. Serve immediately.

16. Salmon Taco Salad

Spice up salmon night with this Salmon Taco Salad, featuring bold Tex-Mex flavors and plenty of crunch.

Recipe Metadata:

• Time to Make: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1. 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
2. 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
3. 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
4. 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
5. 1/2 cup corn kernels
6. 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
7. 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
8. Salsa or Greek yogurt (optional dressing)

Recipe Steps:

1. Rub salmon fillets with taco seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for ~4–5 minutes per side or until salmon flakes easily.
2. In a large salad bowl, toss lettuce, black beans, corn, and tomatoes.
3. Top with cooked salmon and sliced avocado if desired.
4. Serve with salsa or a dollop of Greek yogurt as dressing.