This Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad is a refreshing, vibrant, and nutritious dish that comes together in minutes. Perfect for a light lunch or a fancy brunch, it's packed with flavors that are both sophisticated and simple.
Smoked salmon adds a rich, savory depth that's both luxurious and satisfying. It's the star protein of this dish, offering a wonderfully smoky taste. Avocado provides a creamy texture, balancing the saltiness of the salmon with its mild, buttery flavor. Arugula brings a peppery bite that livens up the salad, while capers offer a punch of tangy saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Extra virgin olive oil binds everything together with its smooth, fruity notes, and the lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty brightness. Finally, a pinch of salt and pepper brings out the best in all these ingredients.
This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing its fresh flavors. For a fuller meal, serve it alongside a crusty whole-grain bread or a light quinoa pilaf.
First things first, grab a large salad bowl. This will give you plenty of room to toss everything together without making a mess. Add the arugula to the bowl, creating a nice bed for the other ingredients. Then, take your ripe avocado and carefully dice it. Aim for bite-sized pieces that are easy to pick up with a fork. Add those to the bowl with the arugula.
Now, let's get to the smoked salmon. Tear it into bite-sized pieces. No need to be too precise here — rustic is good. Scatter the salmon over the avocado and arugula. Next, sprinkle the capers evenly across the salad for those little bursts of flavor.
For the dressing, simply drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and the lemon juice over the top. You're aiming for a nice, even coating but not drenching the leaves. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient gets a little love and attention. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, a little goes a long way with these powerful flavors.