Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Flaky smoked salmon topped with a vibrant avocado, tomato, and cilantro salsa for a refreshing, protein-rich meal. This pacific northwest-inspired seafood (pescatarian) ready in about 15 minutes blends smoked salmon fillets, avocado, medium tomato into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 390 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 2 Pacific Northwest cuisine 390 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Dice avocado, tomato, and red onion into 1/4-inch cubes. Mince 1 garlic clove and finely chop cilantro.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, and 1/4 tsp salt until emulsified.
  3. Step 3: Gently fold diced avocado, tomato, red onion, and cilantro into lime dressing, then season with additional salt if needed.
  4. Step 4: Arrange salmon fillets on a plate, skin-side down. Spoon avocado salsa evenly over salmon, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with extra lime wedges for squeezing over top.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Lemon Garlic Smoked Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Pacific Northwest seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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