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Salmon Salad with a Toasted Sesame Seed Dressing

A bright salad of mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, and oven-baked marinated salmon finished with a toasted sesame seed dressing.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces salmon
  • salad greens (spring mix and butter lettuce)
  • 1 avocado
  • cucumber to taste
  • spring onions to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced (for dressing)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 pinch ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Make the marinade: in a bowl or large zip-top bag combine 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and 2 tablespoons sesame oil. Add the salmon and refrigerate to marinate for 30–60 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the salmon finishes marinating.
  • Make the dressing: whisk together 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice, a pinch of ground ginger, and salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl.
  • Toast the sesame seeds: heat a small dry skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, and shake or stir constantly until they turn light brown, about 1–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool, then stir into the dressing.
  • Bake the salmon: place the marinated salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes (depending on thickness) or until cooked through. Remove from oven and let rest briefly.
  • Prepare the salad: slice the avocado, cucumber, and spring onions. Toss them with the salad greens and the toasted sesame dressing until evenly coated.
  • Assemble and serve: top the dressed salad with the cooked salmon. Squeeze extra lemon juice and season with additional salt and pepper if desired, then serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • zip-top bag or shallow dish
  • Small Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Tongs or spatula

Notes

  • Marinate the salmon 30–60 minutes for better flavor.
  • Watch sesame seeds closely while toasting to avoid burning.
  • Use a foil-lined sheet for easier cleanup.
  • Adjust dressing salt to taste depending on soy sauce saltiness.