Looking to elevate your salad game? Dive into the refreshing world of our Chef Salad with Poached Salmon! This vibrant dish not only bursts with flavors but also offers a delightful medley of textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated dinner, this recipe combines crisp mixed greens, succulent poached salmon, and a zesty dressing that will leave you craving more. Join us as we guide you through this easy-to-make masterpiece that promises to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 poached salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon by filling a medium saucepan with water and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of white wine vinegar to the water.
- Carefully crack each salmon fillet into the simmering water and poach for 6-8 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon with a slotted spoon and let it cool slightly.
- While the salmon is cooking, wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Place them in a large serving bowl.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Add these vegetables to the mixed greens.
- Gently flake the cooled salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork, being careful to remove any small bones.
- Sprinkle the pitted olives and crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- Arrange the flaked salmon on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients and ensure even distribution of the dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant Chef Salad with Poached Salmon.
Tips
- Perfect Poaching: For the best results, ensure your water is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. This helps keep the salmon tender and prevents it from breaking apart.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest mixed greens and vegetables you can find. Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color to your salad.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Avocado, radishes, or even nuts can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings! A honey mustard or a balsamic vinaigrette can add a unique twist to the classic olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Chill the Salmon: After poaching, let the salmon cool slightly in the refrigerator before flaking it into the salad. This helps maintain its structure and keeps the salad cool and refreshing.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salad immediately for the best taste, but if you're prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy greens.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg