Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad
This isn't your average salmon salad! My dill-iciously simple salmon salad recipe is bright, fresh, and ready in minutes. Ditch the mayo and dive in!

- Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad: Your New Lunchtime Hero
- Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad Recipe Card
- Why You'll Love This Creamy Salmon Salad
- Time to Get Cooking!
- Ingredients & Equipment
- Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad: Not Your Grandma's Recipe!
- Recipe Notes: Making it Your Own
- Frequently Asked Questions
Alright, let's dive into this salmon salad recipe ! ever have one of those days where you're staring into the fridge, thinking, "ugh, what am i gonna eat?" honestly, that's where this recipe comes in.
It's quick, it's easy, and it's surprisingly fancy-feeling.
Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad: Your New Lunchtime Hero
This best salmon salad recipe isn't your average, run-of-the-mill, mayo-drenched mess. it's got a scandinavian vibe. it's light, bright, and packed with flavor thanks to fresh dill and lemon.
Think of it as a flavor vacation. it's seriously the best!
This salad is born from the need of a delicious and uncomplicated salad that everyone can enjoy. its simplicity makes it quick to prepare, as it takes only 10 minutes in preparation and a very short 15- 20 minutes for cooking, giving a total of 10- 20 minutes.
This yields up to 2-3 servings.
Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) Salmon fillet, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Two 6-ounce (170g) cans of salmon, drained
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) Garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (50g) Celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (30g) Red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup (30g) Capers, drained (optional)
🥄 Instructions:
- Cook the Salmon (if using fresh): Preheat oven to 400F/200C. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then flake with a fork. Alternatively: Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon skin side down until crispy, then flip and cook until just cooked through.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the flaked salmon (or drained canned salmon), celery, red onion, and capers (if using) to the mixing bowl with the dressing.
- Gently Mix: Gently fold all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Salmon Salad
One of the best things about this recipe is how good it is for you. salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for your heart and brain.
You can use canned salmon or cook fresh salmon. either way, it's a win-win!
Seriously, this is perfect for a light lunch, a picnic in the park, or even a fancy brunch. it's also a great way to impress your friends without actually spending hours in the kitchen.
And if you're watching your carbs, this is a great option! i've even seen some keto salmon salad recipes that are pretty darn similar!
This salad is special because it is incredibly easy to put together and it can be a versatile base for many other flavors and ingredients.
It also makes great use of canned salmon and could easily be a can salmon salad recipes or one of my favorite can of salmon recipes
Time to Get Cooking!
Now, let's talk ingredients. you'll need salmon, of course. fresh or canned, your call. then you need mayo (or greek yogurt for a healthier kick), fresh dill, lemon juice, celery, red onion, and a few other pantry staples.
I'll list out the exact amounts in the next section.
For those looking for low carb canned salmon recipes , substituting the mayonnaise for greek yogurt and pairing it with keto-friendly bread or lettuce wraps will keep you on track.
Some also consider it a salmon tuna salad substitute because of how easily you can replace canned tuna with canned salmon.
Okay, let's dive into what you'll need to make this killer salmon salad recipe ! i promise, it's easier than parallel parking in downtown chicago.
Honestly, it's so good, it will make you forget about all those other can salmon salad recipes you've seen. we're talkin' flavor , people!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Here's the lowdown on what you need. I'll give you both US and metric because, hey, we're friends, and I like to be helpful.
- Salmon: You'll need either 1 pound (450g) of salmon fillet OR two 6-ounce (170g) cans of salmon . Quality matters here, folks! If you're using fresh, look for salmon that smells fresh – not fishy, okay? If you go with the canned stuff, spring for wild-caught. Trust me, it's worth the extra few cents.
- Mayo (or Greek Yogurt): 2 tablespoons (30ml) . I'm a mayo gal myself, but if you're watching those carbs and want to make some keto salmon salad recipes , Greek yogurt works great!
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons (30ml), chopped . Don't even think about using dried dill. Fresh is the only way to go here.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml), freshly squeezed . That bottled stuff? Nope. Get a real lemon. You'll thank me.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . This adds a nice little tang.
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . Just a touch!
- Celery: 1/2 cup (50g), finely chopped . Gotta have that crunch!
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup (30g), finely diced . Adds a little zip.
- Optional Capers: 1/4 cup (30g), drained . I love capers! They add a salty, briny pop, you know?
Seasoning Notes
Okay, so this is where the magic happens.
- Essential Spice Combination: Dill, lemon, and a touch of garlic. It's like a party in your mouth! This combination makes the best salmon salad recipe
- Flavor Enhancers: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go. Seriously, taste everything as you cook.
- Quick Subs: No dill? Parsley will do in a pinch. No Dijon? A little yellow mustard can work. Don't panic! Check out salmon tuna salad or can of salmon recipes if you're really in a bind.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, folks.
- Skillet: Only if you're cooking fresh salmon, obviously.
- Mixing Bowl: For mixing all the goodness.
- Fork: For flaking that delicious salmon.
- Common Household Alternatives: If you don't have a skillet for cooking Salmon you can use the oven.
And that's it! see? super simple. now, let's get cooking! this creamy salmon salad will soon be the talk of the town.
I can already taste it! i’ve had many successful variations of this easy salmon salad . if you’re seeking low carb canned salmon recipes , this will do the trick just adjust the ingredient proportions to your preference.
Also feel free to check out salmon sandwich recipes canned .

Okay, check this out. I'm gonna take that Salmon Salad Recipe outline you gave me and turn it into something that'll make your mouth water! Get ready for a dill-icious adventure in salmon goodness!
Dill-iciously Simple Salmon Salad: Not Your Grandma's Recipe!
Honestly, salmon salad gets a bad rap. pictures in old books don't always do it justice. everyone thinks it's just mayo and mush.
But this salmon salad recipe is different. it's a flavor bomb! think scandinavian vibes: fresh, bright, and totally addictive. seriously, you'll be craving it.
I know i always am.
"Fish is the only food that is considered spoiled once it smells like what it is." P.J. O'Rourke. Don't worry; we'll make sure this doesn't smell fishy.
Prep Like a Pro: Setting the Stage for Salmon Success
Essential mise en place is key, people. translation: get your stuff together before you start. chop your celery, dice your red onion, and measure out your ingredients.
This will save you so much time and stress. trust me, i've been there, frantically chopping veggies while the salmon burns.
Not fun.
- Time-Saving Tip: Chop the celery and red onion ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This is perfect if you are making a variety of Salmon Sandwich Recipes Canned.
- Safety First: Wash your hands! You know the drill.
From Salmon to Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Okay, let's do this. I've broken it down into easy steps. Even I can follow this, and that's saying something.
- Cook the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400F/200C . Season your salmon with salt and pepper. Bake for 15- 20 minutes , until cooked through. Flake it with a fork when it is cool. OR pan sear it skin-side down over medium heat until crispy.
- Whip Up the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Greek yogurt is a great way to reduce calories and get Keto Salmon Salad Recipes .
- Combine the Goodness: Add your flaked salmon, 1/2 cup finely chopped celery, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, and 1/4 cup capers (if using) to the dressing.
- Gently Fold: Use a gentle touch, or it won't be the Best Salmon Salad Recipe . Fold everything together. Don't overmix! Mushy is not the goal.
- (Optional) Chill Out: Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This lets the flavors get to know each other. This is especially important when using Can Salmon Salad Recipes .
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Salmon Salad Game
- Taste as you go: Don't be afraid to add more lemon juice, dill, or salt and pepper to taste. It's your salad, after all!
- Avoid Overmixing: I'm saying it again! Overmixing is the enemy of a good Creamy Salmon Salad .
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can totally make this a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Seriously, this easy salmon salad will be a hit. enjoy! and tell me all about your salmon salad adventures. i'm always looking for new ideas for can of salmon recipes, especially those low carb canned salmon recipes and salmon tuna salad combos.
Alright, let's dive into some extra nuggets of wisdom for this awesome salmon salad recipe ! honestly, it's so easy, but these little tips can really elevate it.
It's not just can salmon salad recipes it's a culinary experience.
Recipe Notes: Making it Your Own
So, you've got the basics down. now let's talk about making this easy salmon salad truly yours . it's about taking that basic foundation and building something even more amazing.
Don't be scared to play around! it's like jazz, you know?
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Okay, presentation time! this creamy salmon salad isn't just about taste, it's about the experience , baby! i love serving it open-faced on toasted sourdough.
Top it with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a lemon wedge. boom! insta-worthy. or, go super fancy and serve it in avocado halves.
Complementary sides? some crunchy cucumber slices or a light mixed greens salad. as for drinks? a crisp white wine or even just some sparkling water with lemon is perfection.
Salmon sandwich recipes canned can work with this concept too.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Alright, so you've made a batch. what now? this best salmon salad recipe is awesome the next day. keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll stay good for 2-3 days, tops. freezing? i wouldn't recommend it. the mayo gets weird. for reheating, well, you don't! it's a cold salad, silly.
Variations: Remix Time!
Time to get wild. wanna go low-carb? ditch the bread and serve this keto salmon salad recipes on lettuce cups.
Swap out the mayo for avocado mayo. bam! keto-friendly. for seasonal swaps? in the summer, add some grilled corn or chopped tomatoes.
In the fall, try some roasted sweet potatoes. you know? just use what's fresh and delicious! this can also work with salmon tuna salad recipes.
Nutrition Basics: Feel-Good Food
Here's the lowdown: salmon is packed with omega-3s, which are great for your brain and heart. this salad also gives you a good dose of protein and some healthy fats.
But hey, i'm not a nutritionist! just know you're putting good stuff in your body. remember that for low carb canned salmon recipes you need to adapt your ingredient choices to keep carb counts low.
Honestly, this can of salmon recipes is a game-changer. So go ahead, give it a try! You've got this! It is a simple way to make this meal a healthy alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned salmon for this salmon salad recipe, or do I need to cook fresh?
Absolutely! Canned salmon is a fantastic and convenient option for this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad. Look for wild-caught salmon if you can, it has a lovely flavour and is a healthier choice.
How long does this salmon salad recipe keep in the fridge? I'm thinking of making it ahead of time.
Salmon salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it, when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. After that, the quality starts to decline, and nobody wants a sad salmon salad! Plus, chilling it for at least 30 minutes before serving really lets those flavours get to know each other.
I'm not a huge fan of dill. Can I substitute it with something else in this salmon salad recipe?
Of course! Fresh parsley or chives make excellent substitutes for dill in this recipe. They offer a similar fresh, herbaceous flavour. You could even try a bit of tarragon for a slightly anise-like flavour – think of it as putting your own "twist" on a classic!
What are some good variations I can try to jazz up my salmon salad recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a Mediterranean-inspired version with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Swapping some of the mayonnaise for mashed avocado creates a richer, creamier, and healthier salad.
Can I freeze salmon salad? I'm trying to meal prep and avoid food waste.
While you can technically freeze salmon salad, it's not really recommended. The mayonnaise can separate and become watery upon thawing, which can affect the texture and flavour of the salad. If you're keen on meal prepping, consider making the salad fresh each time, or just cooking the salmon in advance and storing it separately.
Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise I could use in this salmon salad recipe?
Definitely! Greek yogurt is a brilliant substitute for mayonnaise. It provides a similar creamy texture with significantly fewer calories and fat. Avocado mayonnaise is another great option that adds healthy fats and a delicious flavour – it's a win-win!
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