Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing

When it comes to vibrant and refreshing salads, this Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing stands out as a true masterpiece. The combination of succulent salmon fillets, paired with the zesty and slightly sweet notes of blood orange, creates a dish that is both nutritious and indulgent. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, a dinner party, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with your culinary skills. Not only does it look stunning on the plate, but it also bursts with flavor, making every bite a delightful experience.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This salad is not just about beautiful colors; it’s about layers of flavor and texture. The rich and buttery salmon, combined with the earthy black rice and green split peas, creates a hearty base. The orange dill dressing adds a refreshing tang, while the blood orange segments and crumbled feta cheese provide pops of sweetness and creaminess. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it accessible to both novice and experienced home cooks.

Ingredient Checklist

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, based on your preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups of black rice
• 3/4 cup of green split peas
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 3/4 cups of water, stock, or broth
• Juice of 1 blood orange (about 1/3 cup)
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons of minced fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon of mustard
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• Pinch each of salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup of blood orange segments, cut up
• 1/3 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large skillet – for cooking the salmon perfectly.
• Medium saucepan – for preparing the black rice and green split peas.
• Mixing bowl – for whisking together the dressing ingredients.
• Sharp knife – for segmenting the blood oranges and mincing shallots.
• Serving platter – to beautifully present your salad.

Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Grains

Begin by rinsing the black rice and green split peas under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine them with 2 3/4 cups of water or broth and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 30-35 minutes or until the rice and peas are tender. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

While the grains are cooking, season the salmon fillets on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. The seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the salmon, contributing to the overall deliciousness of the Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if applicable). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before flaking into large pieces.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the juice of 1 blood orange, minced shallot, minced dill, lemon juice, mustard, honey, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is the star of the show, bringing together the vibrant flavors of the salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled black rice and green split peas. Gently fold in the blood orange segments and flaked salmon. Drizzle the orange dill dressing over the top and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated in that zesty goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts over the salad for added flavor and crunch. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for a refreshing cold salad experience.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the salmon with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
• Use quinoa instead of black rice for a different grain option.
• For a nut-free version, omit the toasted pine nuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds.
• Swap the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Don’t skip resting the salmon after cooking; it helps retain moisture and flavor.
• Make sure to rinse grains thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch for better texture.
• Be cautious not to overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky, not dry.
• Use fresh dill for the dressing; dried dill won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing is perfect for meal prep! You can make the grains and dressing ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the salad and add the salmon just before serving to keep everything fresh. The salad can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, although the texture of the salmon may change slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Absolutely! While blood oranges add a unique flavor and color, regular oranges can be used as a substitute. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, all the ingredients in this Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing are gluten-free. Just ensure that the grains you choose are certified gluten-free, especially if you opt for any alternative grains.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. If you prefer a slightly rarer center, you can take it off the heat just before it reaches this temperature.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good whisk before using it to reinvigorate the flavors.

Keep Cooking

• Try Citrus Grilled Chicken for another bright flavor profile.
• Check out Quinoa Salad with Fruits and Nuts for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Explore Roasted Vegetable Salad for a seasonal twist.

That’s a Wrap

This Blood Orange Salmon Salad With Orange Dill Dressing is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the season, combining nutrient-rich ingredients with a burst of citrusy goodness. Perfect as a main course or a side, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh tastes, knowing you’re treating yourself to a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this salad will leave everyone raving about your culinary skills. So go ahead, indulge in this refreshing dish and savor every bite!