Light Salmon Salad with Couscous and Arugula

This delightful salad combines the rich flavors of lightly salted salmon and the fresh, peppery notes of arugula, resulting in a refreshing and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad offers a balanced combination of protein and fiber. The addition of cucumbers and bell peppers adds a vibrant crunch, while the couscous provides a subtle nutty undertone. Drizzled with olive oil and garnished with olives and lemon, each bite is a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Preparing this salad is simple and quick, making it an ideal option for those tight on time but unwilling to compromise on flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or served alongside a heartier main, this salad is a versatile and flavorful choice. Subtle variations in ingredients can adapt it to suit personal preferences and dietary needs. When served chilled, this dish is especially refreshing, perfect for warm days or as a palate-cleansing starter. With the variety of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to impress both in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g lightly salted salmon, sliced
• 150 g bell pepper, diced
• 150 g cucumber, diced
• 100 g arugula
• 100 g couscous, cooked
• 100 g olives, sliced
• 50 g leek, sliced into half-rings
• 20 g olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced

Preparation Time

Total: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preparing your workspace with all ingredients laid out for easy access. Ensure your vegetables are washed and dried before cutting.
2. In a large salad bowl, arrange the arugula as the base. Its peppery flavor will complement the other ingredients effectively.
3. Dice the bell pepper into small, even cubes. This ensures every bite has a consistent crunchy texture and vibrant color.
4. Dice the cucumber similarly, ensuring uniformity in size with the bell pepper. This provides a refreshing, watery contrast to the other elements.
5. Add the diced bell pepper and cucumber evenly over the bed of arugula.
6. Thinly slice the leek into half rings. Distribute these over the vegetable mixture, spreading out the tangy onion-like flavor.
7. Position the lightly salted salmon slices over the layered vegetables, creating a visually appealing presentation and enhancing the flavors.
8. Drizzle the salad with the olive oil, ensuring even distribution for a rich, smooth finish.
9. Sprinkle the cooked couscous over the top. This adds a soft texture and a subtle, nutty flavor profile to your salad.
10. Slice the olives and arrange them as a lovely garnish, adding a savory depth to the dish.
11. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad, allowing the acidity to contrast sharply with the rich and savory components.
12. Garnish the edges with lemon slices for a decorative and refreshing touch.
13. Before serving, gently toss the salad to combine the ingredients without disturbing the presentation too much.
14. Check for seasoning, adding a pinch of salt and black pepper as desired to enhance the flavor profile.
15. Divide the salad into four portions, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients for each serving.
16. Serve the salad immediately for the best taste and texture experience, or chill it slightly if preferred.

Tips

• **Substitute** couscous with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• **Zest the lemon** before slicing for extra citrusy flavor.
• **For added flavor**, lightly toast the couscous before cooking to bring out its nutty aroma.

Nutritions

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 20g per serving
• Fats: 22g per serving
• Carbs: 25g per serving

Variations

• **Vegetarian Option**: Replace salmon with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
• **Add Avocado**: For a creamier texture, add sliced avocado.
• **Spicy Twist**: Include a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a chilled white wine for a refreshing meal.
• Serve with toasted garlic bread for a heartier option.
• A light soup can complement this salad for a fuller lunch.

Best Places

• The Modern Salad Bar - Offers diverse and innovative salad options. Location: 123 Fresh Ave, New York, USA.
• Green Gourmet - Known for its fresh ingredients and unique combinations. Location: 45 Leafy Rd, London, UK.
• Salad Heaven - Features a creative menu with global influences. Location: 540 Dream Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
• Vegetales Delight - Offers a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary salads. Location: 12 Spice Lane, Toronto, Canada.
• Mediterranean Bliss - Known for its Mediterranean-style salads with fresh arugula and salmon. Location: 78 Sea Rd, Athens, Greece.
• Salad and Co. - A blend of classic and modern salad creations. Location: 300 Healthy St, Rome, Italy.
• Fresh Finds - Features salads with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Location: 222 Green St, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Vitality Vibe - Offers a health-focused salad menu with rich flavors. Location: 67 Wellness Blvd, Dublin, Ireland.
• Crunchy Creations - Known for its innovative and crunchy salad combinations. Location: 89 Bite Ave, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Garden Feast - Offers a garden-to-fork experience with fresh creative salads. Location: 59 Harmony Rd, Paris, France.