Description
This vibrant Mango Salmon Salad combines perfectly baked Cajun-seasoned salmon with fresh, crisp lettuce, sweet diced mango, creamy avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Finished with a tangy cilantro lime vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing, nutrient-packed meal ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 (4 ounce) salmon filets
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salad
- 3 1/2 cups crispy leaf lettuce
- 1 ripe mango, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
Dressing
- 1/4 cup cilantro lime vinaigrette
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare salmon: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pat the salmon filets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place them skin side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush the top of each filet with olive oil and evenly sprinkle with Cajun seasoning for a flavorful crust.
- Bake and broil salmon: Bake the salmon in the oven for 10-12 minutes. Then, switch to the broil setting and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp up the tops. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Assemble salad: Divide the crispy leaf lettuce evenly between two plates. Top each bed of lettuce with the diced mango, sliced avocado, and quartered cherry tomatoes, arranging them attractively.
- Add salmon and dressing: Place one salmon filet on top of each salad. Drizzle each salad generously with the cilantro lime vinaigrette to add tangy, fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm salmon with fresh, vibrant salad ingredients.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, you can add toasted nuts like pecans or almonds.
- If you prefer spicier salmon, increase the Cajun seasoning slightly or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh mango for the best sweetness and texture; canned mango won’t provide the same flavor or firmness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day but are best enjoyed fresh to preserve the salad’s texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
