A fresh, protein-packed dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
This vibrant salad is a Maryland Weight Care favorite: easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and flexible for whatever ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it’s air-fryer friendly and totally customizable.
🛒 Ingredients
Serves 2
For the Salmon Bites:
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8 oz salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
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1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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1 cup fresh peas (or thawed frozen peas)
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½ cup snap peas, thinly sliced
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½ cup radishes, thinly sliced
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1 cup mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or watercress)
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¼ cup fresh mint or basil, torn
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¼ avocado, sliced (optional)
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¼ cup toasted almonds or pistachios, roughly chopped
For the Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette:
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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½ tsp Dijon mustard
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½ tsp honey (or maple syrup)
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1 small garlic clove, minced
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½ tsp lemon zest
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Salt and pepper, to taste
🍽️ Instructions
1. Blanch the asparagus and peas:
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and peas and cook for 1–2 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain immediately and transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Set aside.
2. Make the vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Air-fry the salmon:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Toss the salmon bites with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Air-fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
4. Toast the nuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds or pistachios for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, blanched asparagus and peas, snap peas, radishes, and herbs. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently. Top with crispy salmon, toasted nuts, and avocado if using.
6. Serve immediately
Garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of flaky salt, and enjoy!
📌 Tip: This salad is excellent for meal prep. Store each component separately and assemble when ready to serve.