Name: Grilled Salmon Recipe with Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Grilled salmon with avocado salsa is a delightful dish that combines the smoky, savory flavors of grilled fish with the creamy and refreshing taste of a tangy avocado salsa. This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. The salmon fillets are perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. The avocado salsa is made with ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, offering a burst of freshness and a zesty lime kick. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special dish for guests, this recipe is versatile, nutritious, and satisfying.

The grilled salmon provides a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the avocado salsa adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Together, they make for a well-rounded meal that is both light and filling. This recipe takes minimal time to prepare and is a great option for those who enjoy bold flavors and a modern twist on traditional grilled fish. The combination of smoky, savory, and fresh ingredients will leave your taste buds craving more. Let’s dive into the reasons why you’ll love this easy yet flavorful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious: The salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, while the avocado salsa is packed with fiber and healthy fats.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The smoky grilled salmon pairs wonderfully with the fresh, zesty avocado salsa, creating a harmonious blend of savory and refreshing tastes.
Customizable: The avocado salsa can be easily adjusted to suit your taste by adding more lime, cilantro, or other ingredients like jalapeños or corn.
Light Yet Satisfying: This meal is both light and filling, making it ideal for those seeking a lighter option without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Salmon:

Salmon fillets
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Salt and pepper

For the Avocado Salsa:

Ripe avocados
Cherry tomatoes
Red onion
Fresh cilantro
Lime juice
Salt and pepper

Variations

Add Jalapeños: If you like a bit of heat, try adding finely chopped jalapeños to the avocado salsa.
Swap the Salmon for Another Fish: If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with another firm fish such as halibut or trout.
Grilled Veggies: For a heartier meal, add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus alongside the salmon.
Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil in place of olive oil for a slightly different flavor in the grilled salmon.
Mango Salsa: For a sweeter variation, try swapping the avocado salsa for a mango salsa that complements the grilled fish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each fillet is well-coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the salmon is grilling, prepare the avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon is grilled to your desired doneness, plate the fillets and top them with a generous amount of avocado salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be slightly pink in the center and flake easily with a fork.
For an extra smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill or adding wood chips to your gas grill.
If you prefer, you can cook the salmon in a grill pan or on a stovetop griddle.
To prevent the avocado from browning, prepare the salsa just before serving.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices in the salsa, such as mint or oregano, for a unique twist.

How to Serve

This grilled salmon with avocado salsa is perfect when served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a light salad. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. If you prefer a low-carb option, serve it with steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach for a healthy and filling dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado salsa is best eaten fresh, but if you need to store it, keep it in a separate container to prevent the avocado from turning brown.

Freezing

Although salmon can be frozen for future use, it’s not ideal to freeze the avocado salsa. If you freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the salmon in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving the salmon, as it can become dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
What’s the best way to check if the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?
It’s best to make the salsa right before serving to prevent the avocados from browning.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the avocado salsa for some extra heat.
Can I grill the salmon on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan works well for this recipe. Just make sure it’s preheated and lightly oiled.
Can I use another type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout, halibut, or tilapia.
How can I make the avocado salsa more tangy?
Add extra lime or lemon juice to the salsa for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, both the grilled salmon and the avocado salsa are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika?
Yes, you can substitute regular paprika, but smoked paprika will add a deeper, smoky flavor.
Can I serve this with a side of potatoes?
Yes, grilled or roasted potatoes would be a great side dish to serve with this meal.

Conclusion

Grilled salmon with avocado salsa is a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe offers a healthy and satisfying option that’s simple to prepare. The grilled salmon is deliciously complemented by the creamy avocado salsa, making it a delightful combination of textures and flavors. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s a recipe that fits easily into any busy schedule. Try it today for a fresh, nutritious, and flavorful meal!