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Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This meal combines the rich flavors of perfectly grilled salmon with a refreshing salad made of crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty herbs. Not only is this dish light and satisfying, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 16 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
  • Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and salmon provide essential nutrients and healthy fats.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish as a main course or as part of a larger spread at your next gathering.
  • Refreshing Flavor Profile: The zesty vinaigrette elevates the flavors, making each bite delightful.
  • Easy Cleanup: Using a non-stick skillet means less hassle when it comes to washing up.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Non-stick skillet: Prevents the salmon from sticking, allowing for easy flipping and cleanup.
  • Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing the salad ingredients together without making a mess.
  • Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables for an appealing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 1 salmon fillet (about 150g)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Salad

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

  1. Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
  3. Cook the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked to your liking.

Step 2: Make the Salad

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to mix all ingredients.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Place the grilled salmon on a plate.
  2. Add the fresh salad on the side.
  3. Serve immediately for a delightful meal experience!

Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal
Servings: 1

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Serving grilled salmon with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad is both simple and delicious. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Fresh Herbs

  • Basil or Dill – Sprinkle fresh basil or dill over the salad for an aromatic touch that complements the salmon beautifully.

Lemon Wedges

  • Citrusy Zing – Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their salmon, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Avocado Slices

  • Creamy Addition – Add slices of ripe avocado to the salad for a creamy texture that balances the freshness of the vegetables.

Whole Grain Bread

  • Hearty Option – Offer slices of whole grain bread or a baguette on the side for those who want a heartier meal.

Quinoa or Rice

  • Nutritious Base – Serve the salmon on a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition and a filling component to the meal.

Mixed Greens

  • Extra Crunch – Include a handful of mixed greens under the salmon for added crunch and health benefits.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Enhancing your grilled salmon dish can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips to achieve perfection:

  • Choose Quality Salmon – Start with fresh, sustainably sourced salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • Perfectly Seasoned – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the fish.
  • Preheat Your Pan – Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon to achieve that perfect sear.
  • Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on cooking time; aim for 3-4 minutes per side to prevent dryness.
  • Let It Rest – Allow the cooked salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving, which helps retain moisture.
  • Dress Lightly – When making your salad, dress it lightly so as not to overpower the fresh vegetables’ flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Pairing your grilled salmon dish with complementary sides can enhance its appeal. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears roasted in garlic oil add a lovely crunch and flavor contrast.
  2. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices provides a nutritious base that pairs well with salmon.
  3. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out your plate.
  4. Sweet Potato Mash – Creamy sweet potato mash offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory salmon.
  5. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil makes for a light, healthy alternative to pasta.
  6. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until charred adds a smoky flavor that complements fish perfectly.
  7. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon can serve as a refreshing side dish.
  8. Roasted Bell Peppers – Colorful roasted bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon adequately can lead to bland fish. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
  • Overcooking salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can dry it out. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side, adjusting based on thickness.
  • Salad preparation: Cutting vegetables too large can result in an awkward texture. Ensure cucumbers and tomatoes are sliced evenly for a pleasant bite.
  • Skipping the dressing: A salad without dressing can taste flat. Use olive oil and lemon juice to create a vibrant vinaigrette that complements the dish.
  • Neglecting freshness: Using old vegetables affects taste. Always select fresh ingredients to ensure your salad is crisp and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store grilled salmon and salad separately in airtight containers.
  • Consume within 2 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

  • It’s best not to freeze the salad due to the freshness of ingredients.
  • You can freeze grilled salmon for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat salmon on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but be cautious not to overcook.
  • Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a non-stick skillet, covering it with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia, adjusting cooking times as needed.

How do I make this dish more filling?

Consider adding quinoa or couscous as a base under the salad and salmon for added texture and nutrition.

What can I add to the salad?

Feel free to mix in avocado, bell peppers, or herbs like dill for extra flavor and variety.

How do I prevent my salmon from sticking?

Using a well-seasoned skillet or non-stick pan will help prevent sticking when grilling your salmon fillet.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is not only light but also incredibly versatile. With its refreshing flavors and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for any meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch!

Print
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Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad


  • Author: Adeline
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 1

Description

Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of perfectly grilled salmon with a refreshing medley of crisp cucumbers and sweet cherry tomatoes. This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a drizzle of zesty olive oil and lemon juice, this dish comes together effortlessly in under 20 minutes, ensuring you enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfectly versatile, it can be served as a main course or as part of a larger spread, making it truly adaptable to any dining experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 salmon fillet (about 150g)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Season the salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  3. Cook the salmon for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve the grilled salmon alongside the fresh salad immediately.
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider garnishing your salad with fresh herbs like basil or dill. To make this dish more filling, serve it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice. You can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia if desired.

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π‚π‘πžπŸ Adeline

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Chef Adeline