Salmon Caesar Salad
Perfectly seared salmon flakes over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce, tossed in a creamy, homemade Caesar dressing with crunchy sourdough croutons. A classic restaurant-quality salad made right at home.
For 4 servings
Prepare Salmon and Croutons
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, then season evenly with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Cut sourdough bread into 1-inch cubes.
TIPPatting the salmon dry ensures a crispier skin when baked.Bake Salmon and Croutons
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange seasoned salmon and olive oil-drizzled bread cubes on separate baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily and croutons are golden.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place seasoned salmon on a baking sheet.
- Place bread cubes on another sheet, drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon is cooked and croutons are crisp.
Prepare Caesar Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk 2 large egg yolks, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp anchovy paste, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce until well combined and emulsified.
TIPFor a richer dressing, slowly drizzle in 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil while whisking vigorously.Wash and Chop Romaine
Wash the 2 heads of romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold running water. Spin dry in a salad spinner or pat very dry with paper towels. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the Caesar Salad
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, baked croutons, and the prepared Caesar dressing. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve with Salmon and Parmesan
Divide the dressed salad among four bowls. Flake the baked salmon into large pieces and arrange on top of each salad. Garnish generously with 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest salmon skin, ensure the skillet is very hot and the salmon is completely dry before cooking.
- 2To create a stable, creamy dressing, it's crucial to add the olive oil very slowly while whisking continuously. A food processor can also be used for an easier emulsification.
- 3Use a block of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the dressing's texture.
- 4Don't dress the salad until you are ready to serve, as the lettuce will wilt quickly and lose its crunch.
- 5For a safe alternative to raw egg yolks, use pasteurized eggs or substitute with 1 tablespoon of high-quality mayonnaise.
- 6Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace the salmon with grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add CreaminessAdd Creaminess
Add half a sliced avocado to each salad for extra healthy fats and a creamy texture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the Caesar dressing for a bit of heat.
Extra VeggiesExtra Veggies
Incorporate cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, or capers for additional flavor and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is a prime source of EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
With a significant amount of high-quality protein per serving, this salad helps with muscle repair, growth, and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Supports Heart Health
The monounsaturated fats from extra virgin olive oil, combined with the omega-3s from salmon, contribute to improved cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.
Provides Essential Vitamins
Romaine lettuce is a good source of vitamins A and K. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, while Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Salmon Caesar Salad contains approximately 680-750 calories, depending on the exact size of the salmon fillet and amount of dressing used. It's a nutrient-dense meal, with most calories coming from the healthy fats in the salmon and olive oil.
