Name: Smoked Salmon, Avocado & Fennel Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1/3 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 head butter lettuce, leaves torn; 1 Turkish cucumber, sliced; 1/2 fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 4 to 6 ounces smoked salmon; 1/8 to 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons capers; 1 avocado, sliced; Sunflower sprouts (optional); Extra fresh dill (optional); Everything Bagel seasoning (optional)

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This Smoked Salmon, Avocado & Fennel Salad is one of my favorite fresh and flavorful meals when I want something light yet satisfying. I combine smoky salmon, creamy avocado, crisp fennel, crunchy cucumber, and buttery lettuce with a rich homemade dill dressing that ties every ingredient together beautifully. It is perfect for a quick lunch, an elegant dinner, or a refreshing meal on a warm day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Creamy Dill Dressing:

⅓ cup mayonnaise

⅓ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

⅓ cup fresh dill, chopped

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

For the Salad:

1 head butter lettuce, leaves torn

1 Turkish cucumber, sliced

½ fennel bulb, thinly sliced

4 to 6 ounces smoked salmon

⅛ to ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons capers

1 avocado, sliced

Sunflower sprouts (optional)

Extra fresh dill (optional)

Everything Bagel seasoning (optional)

Directions

I whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

I stir in the chopped fresh dill and set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to blend.

In a large salad bowl, I combine the torn butter lettuce, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced fennel, smoked salmon, red onion, and capers.

I drizzle enough dressing over the salad to lightly coat the ingredients and gently toss everything together.

I taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly cracked black pepper if needed.

I carefully add the sliced avocado and sunflower sprouts, or arrange them on top as a garnish.

I finish the salad with extra fresh dill and a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning if I want even more flavor.

I serve the salad immediately while it is fresh and crisp.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: Approximately 538 kcal per serving

Variations

I replace the smoked salmon with grilled salmon or cooked shrimp for a different seafood option.

I add cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.

I include sliced radishes for additional crunch and a peppery bite.

I substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to create a lighter dressing.

I toss in mixed greens, baby spinach, or arugula for extra variety.

I sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds over the salad for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I enjoy this salad immediately after assembling for the freshest flavor and texture. If I need to prepare it ahead of time, I keep the dressing separate and store the salad ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. I slice and add the avocado just before serving to help prevent browning.

Since this is a fresh salad, I do not recommend reheating it. I simply toss it with the dressing right before serving for the best results.

FAQs

Can I make the dill dressing ahead of time?

Yes. I prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I stir it well before using.

Can I use another type of lettuce?

Absolutely. I often use romaine, mixed greens, baby spinach, or arugula when butter lettuce is unavailable.

What can I substitute for fennel?

If I do not have fennel, I use thinly sliced celery or cucumber for a similar crisp texture, although the flavor will be different.

Is this salad low in carbohydrates?

Yes. This salad is naturally low in carbohydrates while being rich in healthy fats, protein, and fresh vegetables, making it a satisfying low-carb meal.

What can I serve with this salad?

I like serving this salad with crusty artisan bread, crackers, a cup of soup, or roasted potatoes for a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

I love making this Smoked Salmon, Avocado & Fennel Salad because it delivers fresh flavors, beautiful colors, and satisfying textures in every bite. The creamy dill dressing perfectly complements the smoky salmon and crisp vegetables, creating a simple yet elegant meal that is ideal for busy lunches, light dinners, or special occasions. It is a recipe I can prepare quickly while still serving something wholesome and full of flavor.

📖 Recipe:

Smoked Salmon, Avocado & Fennel Salad

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This Smoked Salmon, Avocado & Fennel Salad is a fresh, flavorful meal featuring smoky salmon, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a creamy homemade dill dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner with elegant presentation and satisfying texture.

Instructions

Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the chopped fresh dill and let the dressing rest while you prepare the salad.
In a large bowl, combine the butter lettuce, cucumber, fennel, smoked salmon, red onion, and capers.
Drizzle the salad with enough dressing to lightly coat the ingredients and gently toss.
Taste and adjust with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Add or arrange the sliced avocado and sunflower sprouts on top.
Garnish with extra fresh dill and Everything Bagel seasoning if desired.
Serve immediately while fresh and crisp.