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

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.

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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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