We are about to share the flavors of health and simplicity!Our smoked salmon arugula salad, a powerhouse blend of protein and fiber that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to savor. Get ready to be wowed by this recipe!
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Why Eat Smoked Salmon Arugula Salad?
I am not the biggest salmon fan, but smoked salmon, well that is a bit different. While I am well aware there is sodium in the salmon, it is after all still salmon, and the pairing of the smoked against the licorice-like arugula flavor just kicks ass! (sorry there is really no other way to say it!)
The prep, the flavor, the texture all win big with me, and those are things I look for in every meal I prepare and serve. Which I believe is what others look for to!
Now you know our two main ingredients in this salad and you are still reading so I am going with the notion you want the full recipe!
Ingredients For The Salmon Arugula Salad
- Frozen peas, boiled until tender
- Cooked couscous, fluffed with a fork
- Chopped cucumbers for a refreshing crunch
- Ripe tomatoes, diced into cheerful red jewels
- Fresh, peppery arugula leaves
- Crumbled feta cheese for a creamy tang
- Fresh basil, roughly torn
- Fresh parsley, because we’re keeping it zesty
- Pepitas for that satisfying crunch
- Drained and rinsed chickpeas, our protein-packed pals
- Store-bought smoked salmon, flaked into irresistible bits
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed for that zing
- Olive oil, the liquid gold of the kitchen
- Honey for a touch of sweetness
- A pinch of sea salt, and a bit of fresh pepper to bring all the flavors home
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (I use English Peas from Trader Joe’s)
- 1-1/2 cups cooked couscous
- 1-1/2 cups cucumbers, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup pepitas
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 200g store-bought smoked salmon, sliced
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp honey
- Sea salt and fresh pepper to taste
Smoked Salmon: The Flavor Ingredient
Smoked salmon isn’t just any fish; it’s a game-changer. Smoked salmon offers a luxurious, velvety texture with a smoky edge, turning a simple salad into a gourmet treat.
It’s not just tasty; it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-friendly choice. Plus you can buy it prepared so this is a fast-to-make salad!
Chickpeas: The Unsung Hero In The Smoked Salmon Arugula Salad
Chickpeas might seem humble, but they’re nutritional powerhouses, adding a delightful crunch and a boost of protein. They’re the unsung heroes, balancing the smokiness of the salmon and the peppery arugula beautifully.
The smoked salmon whispers of luxury, the chickpeas offer a grounding earthiness, and the arugula sings with a peppery flair.
Step-by-Step Guide Smoked Salmon Arugula Salad
- Peas & Couscous Prep: Boil the peas until tender, drain and set aside. Ensure your couscous is cooked as per package instructions and fluffed with a fork.
- The Veggie Mix: In a large bowl, combine the cooked peas, couscous, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Toss these crunchy, fresh veggies – they’re the base of the salad’s vibrant palette.
- Arugula & Herbs: Add the arugula, basil, and parsley. Arugula isn’t just another leafy green; it’s a peppery sensation that adds depth to every bite.
- Protein: Fold in the chickpeas and smoked salmon. Watch the salad transform with these hearty additions.
- Feta & Pepitas: Sprinkle in the crumbled feta and pepitas. Feta’s creamy saltiness and pepitas’ nutty crunch are taking your base salad to the next level.
- Dressing: Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and sea salt. Drizzle it over the salad. Zesty is about to appear!
- Toss: Gently mix everything, ensuring each ingredient gets a bit of that dressing.
- Serve & Savor: Plate up and enjoy! Every forkful is a burst of spring freshness with a smoky, creamy twist.
The Smoked Salmon Arugula Salad You Will Love Has Versatility
Every single ingredient I am providing is interchangeable with any other ingredient you might prefer but, word of warning… if you change out the proteins make sure you add other protein or it will not be the same protein-loaded salad.
- Arugula: you can use chopped romaine, Boston lettuce, or baby mixed greens instead. The flavor profile won’t be the same but, you can swap it out.
- Chickpeas can be changed out for navy beans, or black beans, etc.
- Pepita seeds can be swapped for sunflower seeds or hemp
- Parsley can be changed out for cilantro (I taste soap so I use parsley instead) it will be more peppery with parsley
- Cucumbers can be traded out for zucchini mushrooms or even… watermelon
- Feta can be swapped out for gorgonzola blue cheese or even goat cheese
- Farro is a great swap out for CousCous
Pairing Suggestions For The Smoke Salmon Arugula Salad
- Wine: A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, dances beautifully with the salad’s flavors.
- Bread: Serve with a slice of rustic whole-grain bread to mop up the delightful dressing.
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