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If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this Green Salad with Smoked Salmon and Parmesan Cheese is perfect for you! Featuring fresh greens, savory smoked salmon, and nutty Parmesan cheese, this dish is dressed in a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. It’s a quick and easy salad that can be whipped up in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a light dinner!

Here’s a great main dish salad that has lettuce greens, Parmesan cheese and smoked salmon. The salad greens are dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and topped with the smoked salmon!

Why You’ll Love Green Salad with Smoked Salmon and Parmesan Cheese

Easy to prepare: This salad comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need something quick and delicious.
Rich in flavor: The smoky, savory salmon combined with the nutty Parmesan cheese and tangy balsamic dressing gives each bite a burst of flavor.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein from the smoked salmon and nutrients from the fresh greens, this salad is not only tasty but also wholesome.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, dinner, or as part of a special meal, this salad is versatile enough for any occasion.
No cooking required: With no need for preheating or cooking, you can enjoy a fresh, flavorful salad with minimal effort.

Smoked salmon is a great protein to use in a salad. The addition of the smoked salmon transforms a simple green salad from a side dish into a main dish. Please use a good quality shredded Parmesan cheese (I often use Costco Parmesan cheese), as it’s taste is really prominent in this salad.

This smoked salmon salad is very filling and makes a complete yummy lunch. Best of all, this easy salad takes just a couple of minutes to make – what a great instant meal!

Green Salad With Smoked Salmon And Parmesan Cheese

Ingredients

1 package (4 oz) smoked salmon, cut into smaller pieces: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and provides a good source of protein for the salad.
1 package (12 oz) of lettuce: A fresh and crunchy base for the salad; you can use any variety you prefer, such as romaine, mixed greens, or spinach.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Gives the salad a nutty and savory taste that pairs perfectly with the smoked salmon.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the dressing, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
2 tsp balsamic vinegar: A touch of acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil and Parmesan.

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Green Salad with Smoked Salmon and Parmesan Cheese

Measuring Cups – To measure out the olive oil and vinegar for the dressing.
Measuring Spoons – To ensure you have the right amount of balsamic vinegar and olive oil for the dressing.
Mixing Cup – To combine and blend the olive oil and vinegar smoothly.
Plates – For serving the salad portions evenly.

Instructions

Divide lettuce between 4 plates.
Mix the olive oil and vinegar in a cup until blended.
Drizzle the lettuce with oil and vinegar and toss so the lettuce is coated with dressing.
Sprinkle the salad greens with Parmesan cheese. Add the slices of smoked salmon on top.

If you like main dish salads, check out my recipe for main dish salad recipe with turkey, avocado and corn – it’s so filling and yummy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a light lunch alongside a piece of breadstick or a warm bowl of salmon soup.
For a more substantial meal, pair it with roasted lettuce vegetables or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
This salad also works well as a side dish for grilled boneless chicken, shrimp tempura, or even a hearty pasta dish like arugula pasta, pesto pasta, and chicken pasta salad.
Add a slice of lemon on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus over the salad right before eating.
Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal on a warm day.

Tips for Success

Use high-quality smoked salmon: The flavor of the smoked salmon is a key component of this salad, so opt for a high-quality variety to ensure a delicious result. Look for pre-sliced smoked salmon that is fresh and not overly salty.
Choose fresh greens: Crisp, fresh lettuce or mixed greens make a big difference in the overall texture of the salad. If possible, buy organic or locally sourced greens for the best flavor. You can also mix in other greens like arugula or spinach for more variety.
Balance the dressing: The dressing is simple but important. Make sure to whisk the olive oil and balsamic vinegar thoroughly so they emulsify properly. You can also adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to taste—if you like more tang, add a little extra.
Shred your own Parmesan: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese works fine, but for the best flavor, consider shredding fresh Parmesan from a block. It will have a creamier texture and more intense flavor.
Toss gently: When mixing the dressing with the lettuce, do it gently to avoid bruising the greens. You want them to stay crisp and fresh.
Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the salad right after preparing it. If it sits too long, the lettuce may start to wilt and lose its crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap out the greens: While lettuce is a classic base, you can easily switch it up with arugula for a peppery kick or baby spinach for a milder flavor. Mixed spring greens or even kale can also work well if you prefer a heartier base.
Try different cheeses: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, feel free to substitute it with feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor. Each of these cheeses will bring a unique twist to the salad.
Add fruit: Fresh fruit can add a delightful sweetness to balance the savory smoked salmon and Parmesan. Try adding sliced pears, apples, or even some berries like raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Boost the crunch: Add texture by sprinkling some nuts or seeds on top. Sliced almonds, toasted walnuts, or pumpkin seeds would complement the flavors well while adding a satisfying crunch.
Make it dairy-free: If you’re avoiding dairy, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and add a handful of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s completely plant-based.
Vary the protein: Not a fan of smoked salmon? Grilled shrimp, chicken, or even tofu can be great alternatives that work well with the salad’s flavors.
Gluten-free croutons: For a bit more crunch, you could also add gluten-free croutons or toasted chickpeas to the salad.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately for the best results. Keep the dressed salad greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The smoked salmon and Parmesan cheese can be stored in separate containers for up to 2 days.
Reheating (if applicable): This salad is best served fresh and does not require reheating. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, assemble the ingredients right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
Make-ahead tip: If you want to prepare it in advance, you can mix the dressing and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply toss it with the greens and top with smoked salmon and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, you can substitute smoked salmon with other types of fish like grilled salmon, trout, or even canned tuna if you prefer. Just make sure the fish is fully cooked or ready to eat before adding it to the salad.

What type of lettuce works best for this salad?

You can use any type of lettuce for this salad. Romaine or mixed greens work well, but you can also use spinach, arugula, or even kale for a more hearty and nutritious base.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the salad ahead of time. Keep the salad greens and dressing separate to avoid soggy lettuce. Toss everything together just before serving for the freshest taste.

Is this salad suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this salad is keto-friendly as it contains low-carb ingredients like smoked salmon, lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Just be mindful of the balsamic vinegar as it can add a small amount of carbs.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, you can make the salad dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese. You can substitute it with nutritional yeast, which will provide a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Other Easy Salmon Recipes

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Belly Recipe: Enjoy perfectly crispy and flavorful salmon belly in the air fryer with minimal oil and fuss.

Pan Fried Salmon: This quick and easy pan-fried salmon recipe gives you tender fillets with a golden, crispy crust.

Baked Sockeye Salmon: Succulent baked sockeye salmon, seasoned and cooked to perfection in the oven for a healthy, delicious meal.

Air Fryer Salmon In Foil: Lock in moisture and flavor by air frying salmon in foil, resulting in a perfectly tender and flaky fillet.

Instant Pot Salmon In Foil: Steam your salmon to perfection in the Instant Pot for a quick, hassle-free, and delicious dinner.

Frozen Salmon Burgers In Air Fryer: Cook frozen salmon burgers effortlessly in the air fryer, achieving a crispy outside and juicy inside.

Air Fryer Salmon Fillets Recipe: Enjoy perfectly cooked salmon fillets with a crisp exterior and tender, flaky inside, all made in the air fryer.

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