Spring Salmon Salad Platter

This Spring Salmon Salad Platter is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly balances crisp greens, juicy blueberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese. The tender, flaky salmon adds a rich, savory element, making it an ideal addition to your Easter brunch buffet or Easter lunch menu ideas. Whether you need a light Easter side dish or a showstopping Easter salad idea, this elegant platter is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Easter gatherings – A fresh, colorful dish that pairs well with any Easter dinner menu.
• Healthy yet indulgent – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients come together beautifully with minimal effort.
• Customizable – Easily adjust toppings and dressings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad

• Fresh mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• Cooked salmon (grilled, roasted, or poached)
• Blueberries
• Walnuts, toasted
• Goat cheese, crumbled
• Sliced red onions
• Sliced cucumber

For the Dressing

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper

For Garnish

• Fresh dill or basil
• Edible flowers (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the salmon: If cooking fresh salmon, season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes or until flaky. Let cool slightly.
2. Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad: Arrange mixed greens on a large platter. Flake the salmon over the top. Scatter blueberries, walnuts, goat cheese, red onions, and cucumber slices.
5. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with fresh dill or edible flowers.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes (if preparing fresh salmon)
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese or avocado for creaminess.
• Easter Fruit Salad Twist: Add sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges for more sweetness.
• Extra Protein: Include hard-boiled eggs for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days (without dressing).
• Dressing Storage: Keep in a separate jar in the fridge for up to a week.
• Reheating: If using freshly cooked salmon, store it separately and reheat gently in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything except the dressing and add it just before serving.

2. What type of salmon works best?

Grilled, roasted, or poached salmon all work beautifully. Smoked salmon is also a great option.

3. Can I substitute another cheese?

Yes! Feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan work well.

4. How can I make this salad more filling?

Serve it with quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread on the side.

5. What’s the best way to toast walnuts?

Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

6. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes! A balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing would pair well.

7. Is this salad good for an Easter finger food idea?

Yes! Serve on mini crostini or in lettuce cups for bite-sized portions.

8. What other fruits can I use?

Try raspberries, pomegranate seeds, or thinly sliced apples.

9. Can I serve this as part of an Easter dinner menu?

Absolutely! It pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, ham, or quiche.

10. What drinks pair well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water complements it perfectly.

Conclusion

This Spring Salmon Salad Platter is an elegant yet easy Easter salad idea, perfect for any Easter brunch buffet or light Easter side dish. With flaky salmon, juicy blueberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for Easter dishes to bring to a gathering or a beautiful centerpiece for your table, this salad is sure to impress!