Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant Whole30-friendly dish featuring tender pan-seared salmon topped with a refreshing avocado citrus salsa that brightens every bite. This whole30-inspired whole30 (gluten free, paleo) ready in about 25 minutes blends 6 oz each salmon fillets, medium, diced avocado, large, segmented and chopped orange 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 370 calories and feeds 4, 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 Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 370 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until skin is crisp and golden.
  3. Step 3: Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine 1 diced medium avocado, 1 large segmented and chopped orange, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1 minced small jalapeño (seeded), 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and juice of 1 medium lime.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the salsa mixture, gently toss to combine, and season with a pinch of sea salt to taste.
  6. Step 6: Spoon the avocado citrus salsa generously over each salmon fillet and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus 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 Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus 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 Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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.

Is Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Citrus Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free, paleo, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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