Delicious Spinach Salad with Salmon, Potatoes & Feta

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we understand that a well-crafted salad can be both a nutritious and flavorful centerpiece of any meal. The Spinach Salad with Potatoes, Salmon, and Feta exemplifies this balance, combining the earthiness of fresh spinach, the hearty texture of roasted potatoes, the rich flavor of perfectly cooked salmon, and the creamy tang of feta cheese. This dish is a celebration of textures and flavors, harmonized with a citrusy dressing that elevates each ingredient. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or an elegant dinner, this salad offers a delightful experience that caters to health-conscious food lovers seeking a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Colander or strainer
• Small mixing bowl for dressing
• Microplane or fine grater
• Sharp knife for slicing
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet for roasting potatoes
• Fan oven or conventional oven
• Skillet or frying pan for salmon
• Cooking tongs or spatula
• Serving plates or bowls
• Measuring spoons for dressing ingredients
• Optional: Kitchen tweezers for deboning salmon

Tags

Healthy, Seafood, Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Fresh, Citrus, Easy

Serving Size

This recipe serves 4 generous portions, perfect for sharing among family or friends, or a satisfying individual meal with leftovers for the next day.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires basic knife skills, oven use, and attention to detail during cooking and assembly. Suitable for home cooks comfortable with multitasking and timing.

Allergen Information

• Soy: No
• Nuts: No
• Dairy: Yes (Feta cheese)
• Seafood: Yes (Salmon)

Dietary Preference

This dish is suitable for pescatarians and can be adapted to vegan by substituting feta and salmon with plant-based options. It is gluten-free and low in refined carbohydrates.

Course

Salad / Main Course

Cuisine

Modern Healthy Fusion

Ingredients

Ingredient List

Optional Add-ons and Variations

• Toasted nuts (pine nuts, sunflower seeds) for extra crunch
• Fresh herbs (dill, parsley) to enhance flavor
• Drizzle of balsamic glaze for sweetness
• Substitutes for salmon (grilled chicken, shrimp, or plant-based protein)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by selecting fresh, firm new potatoes, preferably uniform in size for even cooking. Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use your hands or a soft brush to scrub the skin gently, ensuring all dirt is removed, especially since the skins will remain on during boiling and roasting, adding flavor and texture to the final dish.

Place the cleaned potatoes into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Fill the pot with cold water, making sure the water level is at least an inch above the potatoes for proper submersion. Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes during boiling, enhancing their flavor from within. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork or skewer. The tender point indicates that they are cooked through but not overdone, which could cause them to disintegrate during roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Citrus Dressing

While the potatoes are boiling, focus on making the dressing that will infuse the salad with a bright, citrusy flavor. Take a small mixing bowl and squeeze the juice from half an orange into the bowl. Use a citrus juicer or squeeze by hand, ensuring to strain out any seeds to prevent bitterness. Then, add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil—about 2 to 3 tablespoons—to the citrus juice. Using a microplane or fine grater, grate the zest of half an orange directly into the bowl. The zest contains aromatic oils that amplify the citrus flavor.

Next, grate the zest of half a lemon into the same bowl. Lemon zest adds a sharp, fresh aroma that complements the orange’s sweetness. Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Use a teaspoon or small whisk to mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the zest, oil, and juice are well incorporated, creating a balanced, flavorful dressing. Set aside this mixture; it will be used both during roasting and as a finishing drizzle for the salad.

Step 3: Roast the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them using a colander or strainer. Allow them to cool for a few minutes until they are handleable but still warm. To facilitate even roasting, slice each potato in half lengthwise with a sharp knife. This exposes a larger surface area, allowing for a crispy exterior once roasted.

Preheat your fan oven or conventional oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Arrange the potato halves cut-side up on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced adequately to prevent steaming and promote crisping. Lightly brush or drizzle the potatoes with some of the prepared citrus dressing—using a pastry brush or spoon—coating the cut surfaces evenly. This step adds flavor and helps the potatoes develop a golden, crispy exterior.

Place the baking sheet into the oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them during the final minutes to prevent burning. The roasting process intensifies the flavor and creates a delightful texture contrast with the softer interior. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon

While the potatoes are roasting, focus on preparing the salmon fillet. Use kitchen tweezers or small pliers to carefully remove any residual pin bones from the fillet, especially along the backbone, for a smooth eating experience. Check the entire surface and sides of the fillet for pin bones, removing them gently to avoid tearing the flesh.

Using a sharp knife, cut the salmon into slices approximately 2 centimeters wide. This size allows for quick, even cooking and a pleasing presentation. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the salmon slices in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sauté each side for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the edges turn pink and develop a slight crispness. The goal is to cook the salmon lightly, preserving its moistness and delicate texture.

Remove the cooked salmon slices from the pan and set aside on a plate. The residual heat will continue to cook the fish slightly, so avoid overdoing it to maintain tenderness.

Step 5: Prepare the Spinach

Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Once cleaned, drain the spinach in a colander and gently pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy, so ensuring dry leaves is crucial.

Stack the spinach leaves on your cutting board and, using a sharp knife, chop into thin strips or chiffonade. This method makes the spinach easier to eat and provides a delicate texture that pairs well with the other ingredients. Alternatively, you can leave the spinach whole if you prefer a more rustic presentation. Set aside the prepared spinach until assembly.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

Begin by dividing the chopped spinach evenly among four serving plates or bowls, creating a bed for the other ingredients. Distribute the roasted potato halves on top of the spinach, arranging them artfully to showcase their golden exterior. Next, add the sautéed salmon slices, spreading them evenly over the potatoes and spinach to create a visually appealing layered effect.

Drizzle the citrus dressing over the entire salad, focusing on the roasted potatoes and salmon to enhance their flavors. The dressing’s acidity and bright citrus notes will balance the richness of the salmon and the creaminess of the feta cheese.

Step 7: Finish with Feta and Garnishes

Crumb the feta cheese evenly over the assembled salad, allowing its salty creaminess to complement the other ingredients. For added visual appeal, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like dill or parsley if desired, imparting freshness and aroma. Optionally, add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and texture.

Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm roasted potatoes, tender salmon, and fresh, crisp spinach with the tangy feta and citrus dressing. This dish is best enjoyed fresh to preserve the crispy texture of the potatoes and the freshness of the greens.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing potatoes: Small, firm new potatoes are ideal as they cook quickly and develop a crispy exterior when roasted. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
• Salmon sourcing: Fresh, high-quality fillets from reputable sources provide the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon often offers a richer taste and firmer flesh.
• Cooking salmon: Be cautious not to overcook the salmon slices. A brief sauté keeps the fish moist and tender.
• Making the dressing ahead: The citrus dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
• Serving: The salad can be assembled just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Balancing flavors: The citrus dressing balances the richness of salmon and feta beautifully. Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon or orange juice based on preference.
• Crispy potatoes: For extra crunch, broil the roasted potatoes for an additional 2-3 minutes until edges are crisp.
• Salmon preparation: Marinate the salmon briefly with lemon zest and herbs before cooking for additional flavor depth.
• Vegetarian option: Replace salmon with grilled or roasted tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

Add-ons

• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch
• Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil for added aroma
• Drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for sweetness
• Extra citrus segments or slices for presentation

Side Dishes

• Crusty artisan bread or baguette slices
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes
• Light quinoa or couscous salad
• Steamed or grilled seasonal vegetables

Improvements

• Incorporate roasted beets or carrots for color and sweetness.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side for creaminess.
• Use flavored oils (like chili-infused or garlic-infused olive oil) for dressing variations.

Save and Store

If preparing ahead, keep the roasted potatoes and dressing separate until serving to maintain crispness. Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Consume promptly to enjoy maximum freshness and texture.

FAQ

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Yes. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based feta alternative or omit cheese altogether. For a creamier texture, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata can be used, depending on dietary preferences.

Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any added components like nuts or seeds are not processed with gluten-containing equipment if cross-contamination is a concern.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

The components can be prepared separately ahead of time. Roast potatoes, cook salmon, and prepare dressing a few hours prior, then assemble just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.

Conclusion

This Spinach Salad with Potatoes, Salmon, and Feta is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated, nourishing dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. The combination of warm roasted potatoes with delicate salmon, fresh greens, and tangy feta dressed in citrus makes for a vibrant, healthful meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Its versatility allows for numerous adaptations, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re aiming for a light lunch, a festive starter, or a main course, this salad offers a satisfying experience that showcases the best of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more inspired culinary ideas and detailed guides that help elevate your cooking to new heights.

<!–

Sources: Food Network, BBC Good Food

–>