Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing Recipe
If you’re searching for a lunch that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying, this Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing is about to become your new favorite. Imagine plush ribbons of smoked salmon nestled on crisp, colorful greens, with juicy pops of tomato and the zesty crunch of cucumber—all brought together by a tangy, herby, ultra-creamy dressing. The capers and chives give each bite a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for more. This salad is a celebration on a plate, and the best part is, it comes together in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients: for a salad that’s simple yet unforgettable, each element must pull its weight. Every ingredient brings something unique, whether it’s crunch, smokiness, sharpness, or creaminess, and together, they create the irresistible layers in this dish.
- Mixed greens (4 cups): A blend of arugula, baby spinach, and romaine brings variety in both flavor and texture—peppery, tender, and crisp all at once.
- Cold-smoked salmon (6 oz): The star! Luxurious, smokey slices add satisfying protein and richness to the salad.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved): Their bright sweetness balances out the savory flavors beautifully.
- Red onion (1/4 small, thinly sliced): Brings a touch of sharpness and crunch—a little goes a long way.
- Cucumber (1/2, thinly sliced): Refreshing and hydrating, cucumber offers a cool crunch in every bite.
- Capers (2 tablespoons): These briny little wonders are peppery and punchy, pairing perfectly with both salmon and citrus.
- Fresh chives (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Their delicate onion flavor enhances the creamy dressing and adds a splash of green.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup): The foundation of our dressing, lending creaminess with a bright, tangy note.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Blends with the yogurt to create a velvety, rich texture.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds zippy acidity to wake up all the other flavors.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): For a subtle peppery kick and depth in the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): To round everything out and balance the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing
Step 1: Whisk the Creamy Caper Chive Dressing
Start by combining the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and chopped chives in a small bowl. Whisk it all together until the mixture is silky-smooth and flecked with green and briny bits. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste and adjust until you love it! This luscious dressing will make your Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing absolutely shine.
Step 2: Build the Salad Base
In a large bowl or right on your favorite serving platter, lay out the mixed greens as the perfect bed for all that glorious topping. Gently toss them first to get a blend of textures and colors in every bite. Spreading them out gives plenty of space for the toppings to pop.
Step 3: Add the Veggies and Salmon
Next, scatter the cucumber and cherry tomato halves over the greens, followed by the red onion slices. Drape the smoked salmon pieces artfully over the top. The contrast of colors—the coral salmon, red tomatoes, vibrant greens—makes this dish just as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
Step 4: Dress and Garnish
Right before serving, drizzle your creamy caper chive dressing liberally over the salad (or serve it on the side if you prefer everyone to dress their own plate). For a final flourish, sprinkle extra chopped chives or capers on top. Every spoonful of dressing and every garnish counts toward the full, irresistible flavor of your Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing.
How to Serve Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches! Sprinkle additional fresh chives or a few extra capers to really amp up the color and sharp, herby flavor. If you love lemon, add a few zest curls or thin wedges on the side to squeeze over the top just before eating.
Side Dishes
This salad is wonderful on its own, but a slice of crusty sourdough or pumpernickel bread is an excellent companion for soaking up the creamy dressing. Want something heartier? Serve with jammy boiled eggs or a chilled, citrusy white wine for an elegant brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it party-perfect by assembling individual servings in clear glass jars for a picnic, or arrange it on elegant plates for a sit-down brunch. You could even set it out as a build-your-own-Salad bar, letting guests add their own toppings and drizzle the creamy caper chive dressing as they like. Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing really shines however you serve it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The greens will keep best undressed for up to 2 days, while the dressing will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Salads like this one do not freeze well, since the greens and creamy dressing will lose their texture when thawed. Smoked salmon itself can be frozen, but for optimal freshness and flavor, it’s best enjoyed fresh in this dish.
Reheating
This no-cook salad is meant to be served chilled. There’s no reheating required! Simply give your reserved dressing a quick stir before drizzling it over freshly tossed greens and toppings right out of the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with your favorite plant-based alternatives. There are some fantastic, ultra-creamy vegan yogurts and mayo options out there, so everyone can enjoy this Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing.
What type Salad
Cold-smoked salmon is ideal here for its silky texture and subtle smoke. However, hot-smoked or flaked smoked trout are both tasty options if you want to experiment or use what you have on hand.
How can I make the salad more filling?
To make your Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing even heartier, add boiled eggs, cooked baby potatoes, or a slice of grainy bread. This turns your salad into a super satisfying meal that works for brunch or dinner.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, and it actually improves after a few hours in the fridge! Mix the dressing up to 2 days in advance to let those caper and chive flavors get extra friendly. Just give it a quick whisk before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It sure is! Just double-check your smoked salmon and any condiments for hidden gluten, and you’ll have a wonderfully fresh, gluten-free Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing ready to go.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing—it’s a bright, briny, creamy dish that’s quick, wholesome, and special enough to impress any guest (or just yourself at lunchtime). Dive in and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Smoked Salmon Salad in Creamy Caper Chive Dressing is a delightful mix of mixed greens, cold-smoked salmon, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a perfect light meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Mixed Greens:
4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, and romaine),
Smoked Salmon:
6 oz cold-smoked salmon, sliced into bite-sized pieces,
Cherry Tomatoes:
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved,
Red Onion:
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced,
Cucumber:
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced,
Capers:
2 tablespoons capers,
Chives:
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped,
Creamy Dressing:
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and chopped chives until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the mixed greens as a base. Top with smoked salmon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber slices.
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the creamy caper chive dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side. Garnish with extra chives or capers if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve with crusty bread or boiled eggs for a heartier meal.
- This salad is best served fresh and chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
