Cookwith

Name: California Citrus-Seared Salmon with Avocado Herb Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 (5-6 oz) skin-on salmon fillets; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1 large lemon, zested and juiced; 1 small orange, zested and juiced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 4 cups arugula or baby greens; 1 tbsp capers, drained; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

California Citrus-Seared Salmon with Avocado Herb Salad

CrushedLemon1034

Inspired by the viral energy of a Coldplay concert and the drama of a public moment, this dish marries California sunshine with bold, layered flavors. Rich, seared salmon is seasoned and crisped to perfection, then paired with a vibrant salad full of creamy avocado, fresh herbs, and zippy capers. Bright citrus zest and juice cut through the richness, echoing the emotional highs and lows of a night to remember. The result is a pescatarian, keto, and pork-free dinner that's as dramatic and memorable as its inspiration.

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the salt to penetrate.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add salmon fillets skin-side down. Press gently with a spatula for crisp skin. Sear without moving for 4 minutes.
Flip salmon and cook 2-3 minutes more, or until just cooked through. Remove to a plate and let rest.
In a large bowl, combine arugula, avocado, cilantro, basil, red onion, and capers. Zest half the lemon and half the orange directly over the salad for brightness.
In a small bowl, whisk remaining 1 tbsp olive oil with all the lemon and orange juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle over salad and toss gently to coat.
Plate salmon fillets, skin-side up for crispness, atop the salad. Garnish with remaining citrus zest and a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve immediately.