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Salmon Caesar Salad with High Protein Dressing Recipe

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4.1 from 14 reviews

This Salmon Caesar Salad with High Protein Dressing is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Featuring pan-seared salmon fillets served on a bed of crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy, high-protein Caesar dressing made with Greek yogurt and parmesan cheese, this salad combines healthy fats and lean protein with classic Caesar flavors. Gluten-free croutons add a satisfying crunch, making this dish both satisfying and wholesome.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon and Salad

  • 4 salmon fillets, with skin, about 1 inch thick
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 6-8 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
  • Gluten free croutons (optional)

High Protein Caesar Dressing

  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup plain, non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp anchovy paste
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: Combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.
  2. Season the Salmon: Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it is hot and shimmering, but not smoking.
  4. Cook the Salmon Skin Side Down: Carefully place the salmon fillets skin side down in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes to allow the skin to crisp and the flesh to cook through partially.
  5. Flip and Continue Cooking: Using tongs or a metal spatula, flip the salmon fillets over. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the flesh side for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but remains juicy and tender.
  6. Add Butter and Baste: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Swirl the pan gently to melt the butter and baste the salmon fillets, enhancing flavor and moisture.
  7. Rest the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the skillet and place on a plate. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute within the fillets.
  8. Prepare the Salad: Roughly chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the prepared Caesar dressing and toss until all the lettuce is evenly coated. Add gluten free croutons if desired and toss again.
  9. Assemble and Serve: Divide the dressed romaine lettuce among four bowls or plates. Top each serving with a cooked salmon fillet. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice over the top for brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, protein-packed Caesar salad with salmon.

Notes

  • Ensure the skillet is hot before adding salmon to achieve a crispy skin.
  • Do not move the salmon while cooking skin side down to maintain crispiness.
  • Use fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor of the salad before serving.
  • Gluten free croutons are optional but add a nice texture contrast.
  • This dish works well with other types of lettuce if romaine is unavailable.
  • For extra protein, add hard boiled eggs or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Storing leftover dressing in the fridge will keep it fresh up to 3 days.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free