Perfectly Balanced Salmon Salad

Description: This perfectly balanced salmon salad is a nutritious and delicious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, it’s a great option for heart health. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, making it an ideal choice for those looking to eat healthy.

The dish can be served in about 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy your meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It serves four people generously.

Ingredients:

• 4 large skinless salmon fillets
• 1 small head of romaine lettuce
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped finely
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

To start, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (205 degrees Celsius). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque throughout, turning once halfway through cooking. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before handling.

In a medium bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, cherry tomatoes (if using), red onion, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well mixed. You may taste this mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.

Once the salmon has cooled enough to handle without burning yourself, flake it into smaller pieces or chunks using a fork or your hands. Gently fold these flaked pieces of salmon into the salad mixture. The key here is not to over-mix as you want to keep the texture and appearance of the fish intact.

To serve, divide the salad among four plates. You could garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch if desired. Enjoy this perfectly balanced meal either at home or even on a picnic!

Health Benefits:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation throughout the body.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of fresh vegetables and eggs provides a good amount of vitamins A, C, and K along with B-complex vitamins that enhance energy levels and improve brain function. Eggs also provide vital minerals like iron, selenium, and iodine.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Protein: 37g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg

Tips for Success: To ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection, it's important not to overcook. Overcooking can dry out the fish and diminish its flavor. Check frequently towards the end of baking.

If you want a more robust flavor profile, consider marinating the salmon with herbs like dill or basil before baking for an extra kick. Adding lemon zest just before serving also enhances the taste.

Alternative Ingredients:

• Fish Options: You can use any white fish such as cod, tilapia, or halibut instead of salmon if you prefer a different type of fish.
• Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap out the romaine for other leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or even kale. You could also add bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and color.

This versatile recipe allows you to experiment with different ingredients based on what's available in your local market or personal preference. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to enjoy a healthy meal, this perfectly balanced salmon salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds while nourishing your body.