Smoked Salmon and Strawberry Salad

When it comes to creating a salad that’s both luxurious and refreshing, this Smoked Salmon and Strawberry Salad is an absolute game-changer. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining at a fancy café, but you’ve whipped it up in your own kitchen with just a handful of ingredients.

This salad is more than just a pretty plate—it’s a perfectly balanced mix of sweet, salty, and tangy flavours, with the added bonus of being incredibly nutritious. From the delicate richness of smoked salmon to the vibrant sweetness of strawberries, each ingredient works together to create a meal that feels indulgent without weighing you down.

Whether you’re looking for an impressive starter for entertaining or a light and healthy meal, this salad is versatile enough to fit the bill. Ready to elevate your salad game?

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS SALAD.

This Smoked Salmon and Strawberry Salad is:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

Packed with Nutrients: Loaded with omega-3s from the salmon, vitamins from the strawberries and greens, and calcium from the mozzarella.

A Stunning Centerpiece: Its vibrant colours and elegant presentation make it perfect for entertaining.

Customisable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in season.

THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF FLAVOURS.

This salad is all about balance. Here’s how each ingredient plays its part:

Smoked Salmon: Rich, salty, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, smoked salmon brings a touch of sophistication and heart-healthy benefits.

Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, strawberries add a fresh, fruity contrast to the savoury salmon.

Mozzarella Balls: Creamy and mild, mozzarella balances the stronger flavours and adds a satisfying texture.

Butter Lettuce or Rocket: A delicate base that provides a refreshing crunch without overpowering the other ingredients.

Basil Leaves: A burst of herby freshness that ties everything together beautifully.

Honey Lemon Dressing: Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, this dressing elevates the dish with its bright and zesty flavour profile.

SMOKED SALMON & STRAWBERRY SALAD RECIPE.

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook time: Nil

Ingredients

For the Salad:

4 handfuls butter lettuce, rocket, or mixed lettuce leaves

100g (3.5 oz) smoked salmon, torn into bite-sized pieces

10 mini mozzarella balls, torn

10 strawberries, halved

Handful of fresh basil leaves

For the Dressing:

1 tbsp. honey

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 tbsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. honey mustard

INSTRUCTIONS.

1. Assemble the Salad:

   • Divide the lettuce leaves between two plates to create a bed for the salad.

   • Evenly distribute the torn smoked salmon and mini mozzarella balls over the greens.

   • Add the halved strawberries and scatter the basil leaves on top.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and honey mustard until well combined.

3. Dress the Salad:

   • Drizzle the dressing generously over the salad.

   • Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an extra layer of flavour.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately as a light meal, starter, or side dish.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF THIS SALAD.

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse.

Smoked Salmon: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.

Strawberries: Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, strawberries boost your immune system and support glowing skin.

Mozzarella: Provides calcium and protein, essential for strong bones and muscle repair.

Basil Leaves: Rich in vitamin K, basil helps with blood clotting and bone health.

Lettuce and Rocket: Low in calories but high in fibre and hydration, making them great for digestion and overall wellness.

Honey Lemon Dressing: A natural way to add flavuor without processed sugars or unhealthy fats.

WHY THIS SALAD IS PERFECT FOR ANY OCCASSION.

1. Entertaining Guests: With its vibrant colours and gourmet feel, this salad is sure to impress at dinner parties or gatherings.

2. Light Lunch or Dinner: Perfect for days when you want something light yet satisfying. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a bowl of soup for a more filling meal.

3. Meal Prep Magic: The ingredients can be prepped in advance and assembled just before serving, making it a great option for busy schedules.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this salad relies on a few simple ingredients, their quality makes all the difference. Opt for fresh, seasonal strawberries and high-quality smoked salmon for the best results.

2. Customise Your Greens: While butter lettuce and rocket are recommended, feel free to use spinach, rocket, or any mixed greens you have on hand.

3. Don’t Overdress: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

HOW TO CUSTOMISE THIS SALAD.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

1. Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds on top for added texture and flavour.

2. Swap the Protein: Not a fan of smoked salmon? Try grilled chicken, prawns, or tofu for a different protein option.

3. Play with the Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or even burrata would work beautifully in place of mozzarella.

4. Switch Up the Dressing: Experiment with a balsamic glaze or a simple vinaigrette if you prefer a different flavour profile.

MAKE IT A FULL MEAL.

While this salad is perfectly satisfying on its own, you can easily pair it with other dishes to create a complete meal:

Appetizer: Start with a light soup like a chilled cucumber gazpacho.

Side Dish: Add some crusty sourdough bread or roasted sweet potatoes.

Dessert: End the meal with a refreshing fruit salad or a small serving of dark chocolate.

WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE.

What I adore about this salad is its balance—it’s light yet filling, simple yet elegant. The combination of sweet strawberries, salty smoked salmon, creamy mozzarella, and herby basil creates a flavour explosion that feels indulgent yet healthy.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or hosting friends for dinner, this salad always steals the show. Plus, it’s so easy to put together, even on the busiest of days.

STORAGE TIPS.

If you’re planning to make this salad in advance, here’s how to store the components:

• Greens: Keep them dry and store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

• Dressing: Store in a small jar in the fridge and shake well before using.

• Strawberries and Mozzarella: Keep them separate from the greens to prevent sogginess.

• Assemble Just Before Serving: This ensures everything stays fresh and crisp.

FINAL THOUGHTS.

The Smoked Salmon and Strawberry Salad is proof that salads can be exciting, satisfying, and downright delicious. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savoury, creamy and crunchy, making it a hit for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your weekday meals or impress your guests with a gourmet starter, this salad has you covered. So why not give it a try? You’ll fall in love with how simple and delicious healthy eating can be.