Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

A light and refreshing dish, Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad is perfect for any occasion. This heart-healthy meal features tender salmon paired with a vibrant salad of creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes. It’s simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Packed with nutrients and flavors, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is ideal for those on the go.
• Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and healthy fats from avocado, it’s great for your heart.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it as a main course at dinner.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh ingredients provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy Cleanup: Baked salmon means less mess—just one baking tray to clean!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides an even surface for cooking the salmon, ensuring it bakes evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining salad ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for uniform pieces of vegetables.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while making ingredient preparation safe and efficient.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 1 salmon fillet (about 180-200g)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

For the Salad:

• 1 cup chopped romaine or mixed lettuce
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup thinly sliced white onion
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
• Salt & pepper, to taste

How to Make Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180C (350F). This step is crucial for ensuring that your salmon cooks evenly.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon

1. Place the salmon on a baking tray.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Optionally, sprinkle lemon juice over the fillet for added flavor.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked through and flaky.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped lettuce, sliced avocado, chopped tomatoes, and thinly sliced onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to mix all ingredients well.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Serve the baked salmon alongside the fresh avocado and tomato salad on a plate. For an extra zing, add another squeeze of lemon over the salmon if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

Serving your Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few suggestions that pair beautifully with this dish.

With Whole Grain Bread

• Toasted slices of whole grain bread add texture and make for a hearty meal.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serving the salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and boosts nutrition.

Accompanied by Steamed Asparagus

• Crisp-tender asparagus complements the flavors of the salad and salmon perfectly.

Pairing with Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges allow guests to customize the tanginess of their meal, enhancing the salmon’s flavor.

With a Glass of Sparkling Water

• A refreshing glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon is a light beverage option that pairs well with this dish.

How to Perfect Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

To achieve the best results when making Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh salmon: Select high-quality, fresh salmon for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook: Bake until the salmon is just cooked through to keep it moist and flaky.
• Season generously: Use salt, pepper, and lemon juice to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
• Use ripe avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for a creamy texture in the salad.
• Mix greens wisely: Combine different types of lettuce for added flavor and crunch in your salad.
• Experiment with dressings: Try adding different vinegars or citrus juices for varied taste in your salad dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

Pairing side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to complement your Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes add heartiness to your plate.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro offers brightness that balances the richness of salmon.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Mixed seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection provide color and additional nutrients to your meal.
4. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash brings natural sweetness and earthy notes that work well with fish.
5. Chickpea Salad: A light chickpea salad mixed with herbs adds protein and complements the freshness of your main dish.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green touch while being rich in vitamins and minerals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your salmon fillet properly can result in bland flavor. Make sure to season with salt and pepper before baking for maximum taste.

• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven once it’s cooked through and flaky.

• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin your salad’s texture. Choose ripe, soft avocados for a creamy consistency that complements the dish.

• Not letting the salad rest: Serving the salad immediately after mixing can lead to a soggy texture. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps develop flavors without compromising freshness.

• Ignoring presentation: A well-presented dish enhances enjoyment. Take time to plate your salmon and salad attractively for a restaurant-quality experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness and safety.

Freezing Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

• The salmon can be frozen, but avoid freezing the salad components as they may become mushy.
• Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Cover the salmon with foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad, you’re in the right place!

What are the health benefits of baked salmon?

Baked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. It’s also high in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and selenium.

Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes! Other fish like trout or tilapia can be used as alternatives, although they may have different cooking times and flavors.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).

Can I customize my avocado and tomato salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or include nuts or seeds for added crunch.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The total time for preparing Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad is around 25 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon Fillet with Avocado & Tomato Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that is both light and nourishing. This recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping ingredients based on what’s available. Give this dish a try for a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!