Smoked Salmon Salad with Creamy Caper Chive Dressing Recipe

This salad is all about balance: the smoky, savory salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy, herbaceous dressing, while the crunchy vegetables provide a delightful texture. The creamy caper chive dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the delicate salmon without overpowering it.

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Cutting board and knife
• Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Overview of Ingredients

• Smoked Salmon – The star ingredient, adding a rich, savory flavor.
• Mixed Greens – A base of arugula, baby spinach, or a spring mix for freshness.
• Cucumber – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
• Avocado – Creamy and rich, balancing the smoky salmon.
• Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness.
• Capers – For a briny, tangy bite that complements the salmon.
• Chives – Adds a mild, oniony flavor to the dressing.
• Greek Yogurt & Mayonnaise – The base of the creamy dressing, keeping it light and tangy.
• Lemon Juice & Dijon Mustard – For a zesty, tangy kick in the dressing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Creamy Caper Chive Dressing
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped capers, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad
   In a large salad bowl, combine 4 cups mixed greens, 1/2 cucumber (thinly sliced), 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced), and 1 avocado (sliced). Gently toss to combine.
3. Add the Smoked Salmon
   Flake 6 ounces of smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces and scatter over the salad. Add a tablespoon of capers for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Dress the Salad
   Drizzle the creamy caper chive dressing over the salad. Use tongs to toss gently, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve
   Garnish with extra chives, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips

• Use Quality Smoked Salmon: Opt for high-quality, cold-smoked salmon for the best flavor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the dressing.
• Add Extra Veggies: Try adding cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even roasted asparagus for more variety.
• Make it a Main Course: Add boiled eggs or cooked quinoa for extra protein and substance.

What to Serve with This Salad

This smoked salmon salad pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or a side of herbed potatoes. It’s also perfect with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay. Serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: How long does the salad keep?
A: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Toss with dressing just before serving.

Q: Can I use hot-smoked salmon?
A: Yes, hot-smoked salmon has a firmer texture and a deeper flavor, which works well in this salad too.

Q: Can I substitute the salmon?
A: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using grilled chicken, shrimp, or even canned tuna for a different twist.

Smoked Salmon Salad with Creamy Caper Chive Dressing Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked into pieces
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, drained

For the Creamy Caper Chive Dressing

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped capers
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers, chives, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
3. Add the smoked salmon and capers.
4. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with extra chives and serve immediately.

Enjoy this Smoked Salmon Salad with Creamy Caper Chive Dressing as a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion

Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing

This salad is all about balance: the smoky, savory salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy, herbaceous dressing, while the crunchy vegetables provide a delightful texture.

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Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Cutting board and knife
• Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Ingredients

  

• 6 oz smoked salmon flaked into pieces
• 4 cups mixed greens arugula, spinach, or spring mix
• 1/2 cucumber thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
• 1 avocado sliced
• 2 tbsp capers drained
• For the Creamy Caper Chive Dressing
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped capers
• 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers, chives, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
• Add the smoked salmon and capers.
• Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
• Garnish with extra chives and serve immediately.

Notes

this Smoked Salmon Salad with Creamy Caper Chive Dressing as a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion