Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

A delicious and satisfying dish, Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is perfect for any occasion. This recipe features perfectly grilled salmon paired with a refreshing salad made from crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onions. It’s light yet filling, making it ideal for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. With vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, this dish stands out as a healthy choice that your taste buds will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal can be ready in just 16 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables adds vibrant colors and flavors to your plate.
• Healthy Option: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and packed with nutrients from the salad.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as a main course or serve alongside whole grains for a complete meal.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a non-stick skillet means less mess and easier cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures the salmon cooks evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping and perfect browning.
• Sharp knife: Essential for slicing vegetables quickly and safely, helping to achieve uniform pieces for even cooking.

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

For the Dressing

• 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 on both sides.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Cook the salmon for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to your liking.

Step 2: Make the Salad

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

Step 3: Serve

1. Place the grilled salmon on a plate.
2. Add the fresh salad on the side.
3. Serve immediately for best flavor.

With this delightful recipe, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Serving grilled salmon with fresh cucumber and tomato salad is simple yet delightful. This dish is light, healthy, and perfect for any meal of the day. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Quinoa

• Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and complements the freshness of the salad. Cook it according to package instructions and serve alongside the salmon.

Add Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado brings a rich texture that balances the dish. Simply slice ripe avocados and arrange them on the plate for an added layer of flavor.

Include Lemon Wedges

• Lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing over the grilled salmon. This enhances the dish with a burst of citrus that brightens every bite.

Serve with Whole Grain Bread

• Whole grain bread can be toasted for a crunchy side. It provides a hearty element that rounds out this light meal beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Perfecting your grilled salmon requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish stands out.

• Choose fresh salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible for better flavor and quality.
• Preheat your skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps achieve a nice sear.
• Use a non-stick spray: Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on the skillet for easier flipping without sticking.
• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; 3-4 minutes per side is generally perfect for juicy salmon.
• Rest before serving: Let the salmon rest for a minute after cooking to retain its juices.

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

Complementing grilled salmon with appropriate sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and crunch, enhancing both nutrition and presentation.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside the freshness of the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds depth of flavor and texture.
4. Brown Rice Pilaf: Flavorful brown rice pilaf can bring additional fiber while soaking up any dressing from your salad.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can add a refreshing crunch and contrast in flavors.
6. Couscous Salad: Couscous mixed with herbs and veggies makes for a light, fluffy side that pairs well with grilled salmon.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast, bringing variety to your plate while being health-conscious.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that adds freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Not seasoning the salmon properly – Ensure you season the salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Overcooking the salmon – Cooking salmon for too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown on each side, typically 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

• Skipping the salad dressing – A simple vinaigrette elevates your salad. Don’t skip this step; combine olive oil and lemon juice for a zesty touch.

• Using unripe tomatoes or cucumbers – Fresh ingredients are key. Choose ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for optimum flavor and texture in your salad.

• Neglecting to toss the salad gently – Tossing too vigorously can bruise the vegetables. Mix gently to maintain their fresh appearance and crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

• The grilled salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.

• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Cook salmon for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad that many home cooks have.

How do I choose fresh salmon?

Fresh salmon should have a bright color, moist appearance, and a mild aroma. Look for fillets with no discoloration or strong fishy smell.

Can I use other vegetables in the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding bell peppers, radishes, or avocados to enhance flavors and textures in your dish.

What is the best way to grill salmon?

The best way is using a hot grill or skillet. Season well and cook skin-side down first if applicable, flipping carefully once golden brown.

How long does it take to grill salmon?

Typically, cooking time is around 6-8 minutes total (3-4 minutes per side), depending on thickness. Use an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) as a guide.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon and prep the salad ingredients earlier in the day. Just grill before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is not only light but also bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or seasonal vegetables!

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Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad

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

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Description

Grilled Salmon with Fresh Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the rich, savory flavors of salmon with the refreshing crunch of a vibrant salad. This recipe features perfectly grilled salmon fillets seasoned to perfection, served alongside a crisp mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Topped with a zesty dressing of olive oil and lemon juice, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. Enjoy this healthy dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Season the salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
3. Cook the salmon for 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 before tossing gently.
6. Serve the grilled salmon on a plate with the fresh salad on the side.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg