If you’re someone who loves fresh, light, yet satisfying meals, then Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa should definitely make it to your recipe rotation. This dish combines the smoky goodness of perfectly grilled salmon with the creamy, zesty, and vibrant avocado salsa, creating a delicious symphony of flavors that will elevate your dining experience.
What makes this recipe even more exciting is the infusion of Indian spices like jeera (cumin) and a dash of amchur (dry mango powder), which add a unique twist to the traditional pairing of salmon and avocado. If you’re looking for something healthy, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is all that and more!
Why Grilled Salmon and Avocado Salsa?
Salmon is one of the healthiest fish options you can enjoy, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, and packed with protein. It’s also a good source of vitamin D, which helps keep your bones strong. When paired with avocado, a nutrient-packed superfood, this dish becomes a powerhouse of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
But what truly takes this dish to the next level is the Indian-inspired seasoning. A sprinkle of jeera (cumin), a dash of garam masala, and a touch of amchur (which adds a tangy flavor) transform the simple grilled salmon into a flavorful, spiced masterpiece. The avocado salsa — fresh, tangy, and cooling — balances the smokiness of the salmon and the richness of the spices perfectly.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon jeera (cumin) powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, if you like a little spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder) or lime juice, for tanginess
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Start by marinating the salmon to infuse it with flavor. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, jeera (cumin) powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the salmon fillets. Squeeze lemon juice over them for an added fresh kick. Allow the fillets to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
While the salmon is marinating, it’s time to prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, tomato, red onion, cucumber, and green chilies (if using). Sprinkle a bit of salt and amchur (or lime juice) over the top to give the salsa a tangy, zesty flavor that will complement the richness of the salmon. Add a handful of fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. Mix gently, making sure the avocado remains in chunks, not mashed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Grill the Salmon
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down if the skin is still on. Grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can dry out. The fish should still be juicy and tender inside.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once the salmon is grilled to perfection, serve it on a plate. Top each fillet with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa. The salsa will add a refreshing contrast to the smoky warmth of the salmon, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top to brighten the dish even further.
You can serve this dish with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad for a complete, healthy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Healthy and Nutritious: This dish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from the veggies, making it a nourishing option for lunch or dinner.
Fusion of Flavors: The Indian spices like jeera, garam masala, and amchur create a wonderful twist on traditional grilled fish, while the avocado salsa adds a fresh and cooling element to balance the heat and smokiness.
Quick and Easy: The salmon cooks quickly on the grill, and the salsa takes just minutes to prepare. It’s the perfect meal for busy weekdays or weekend dinners when you want something healthy and flavorful.
Customizable: If you want to add more crunch, toss in some pomegranate seeds into the salsa or top the salmon with a handful of crunchy roasted nuts like almonds or cashews. For a different flavor, try adding ginger or a sprinkle of chat masala to the salsa!
Impressive and Elegant: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a fancy meal at home, this grilled salmon dish looks and tastes elegant, without requiring a lot of effort.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa with a side of roasted vegetables, a refreshing mint yogurt chutney, or a simple green salad with a lemony dressing. For a little extra indulgence, serve it with a side of garlic butter naan or quinoa pilaf to make it a full meal.
If you’re looking for more heat, drizzle a bit of sriracha or chili garlic sauce over the salmon before serving. The rich, smoky heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado salsa.