Introduction

This Seared Salmon with Citrus and Arugula Salad is a delightful combination of tender, crispy-skinned salmon and a refreshing, tangy citrus salad. It’s an elegant, colorful dish perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Fresh oranges and grapefruit bring bright, juicy sweetness to balance the richness of salmon, while peppery arugula, creamy avocado, and crunchy pistachios add varied textures and layers of flavor.

Salmon, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, pairs wonderfully with the unique citrus dressing, made with fresh lemon and orange juice and Dijon mustard for a balanced, zesty flavor. Fennel adds a mild anise flavor that complements the citrus and salmon, and the salad’s medley of ingredients creates a plate that’s both visually stunning and nutrient-packed.

Whether you’re hosting or simply enjoying a personal gourmet meal, this Gluten-Free Seared Salmon with Citrus and Arugula Salad will impress with its balance of taste, texture, and nutrition.

Ingredients List

Citrus Dressing:

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste

Citrus Salad:

  • ¼ cup thinly sliced shallot (from 1 large shallot)
  • 1 small grapefruit
  • 2 to 3 navel oranges, blood oranges, or Cara Cara oranges (about 1½ pounds total)
  • 2 to 3 ounces baby arugula (about 4 cups)
  • ½ medium fennel bulb, trimmed, cored, and thinly sliced crosswise
  • 1 ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup shelled, roasted salted or unsalted pistachios, chopped

Seared Salmon:

  • 4 (6-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Substitutions and Tips

  • Alternative Greens: Substitute baby arugula with spinach or mixed greens for a milder flavor.
  • Swap Citrus: Use Meyer lemons, tangerines, or pomelos for variety in the citrus profile.
  • Nuts Variation: If pistachios aren’t available, try almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Citrus Dressing

  • Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons orange juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.

2. Prepare the Citrus Salad Ingredients

  • Slice the Citrus: Cut off the top and bottom of the grapefruit and oranges. With a sharp knife, remove the peel and white pith, following the curve of the fruit. Slice each fruit into rounds or segments, removing any seeds.
  • Marinate Shallots: Place thinly sliced shallots in a small bowl and drizzle a tablespoon of the dressing over them. Let sit for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.

3. Prepare the Salmon

  • Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the Pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan.
  • Cook the Salmon: Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on the skin side until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • Layer the Ingredients: On a large serving platter, spread the arugula. Layer the citrus slices, marinated shallots, fennel slices, and avocado on top of the greens.
  • Add Dressing and Nuts: Drizzle the salad with the prepared citrus dressing. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for crunch.

5. Plate and Serve

  • Serve the Salmon: Arrange the seared salmon fillets alongside the salad. Garnish with extra dressing, salt, or pepper if desired.
  • Final Touch: Add any remaining citrus slices around the plate for a colorful presentation.

Tips for Success

  • Achieving Crispy Salmon Skin: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. Press the fillets gently with a spatula for even skin contact with the pan.
  • Avoid Overmixing the Salad: Gently toss the salad with dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty gluten-free bread for a heartier meal or quinoa on the side for extra protein.

Recipe Variations

  • Grilled Salmon Option: Grill the salmon fillets on a preheated grill for about 4 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.
  • Add Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for added creaminess and tang.
  • Honey-Balsamic Dressing: Replace the citrus dressing with a honey-balsamic glaze for a sweeter, richer flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Gluten-Free Seared Salmon with Citrus and Arugula Salad is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

  • Gluten-Free Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crusty gluten-free bread is perfect for dipping into the dressing.
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Add a hearty, subtly sweet contrast by serving roasted sweet potatoes on the side.
  • Lemon Quinoa: Complement the salad’s zesty flavors with a light and fluffy lemon-infused quinoa.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storing Leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in a nonstick pan over low heat or enjoy cold on the salad.
  • Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the citrus and greens won’t retain their texture.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 510
  • Fat: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Sodium: 400mg

Health Benefits

This meal is rich in healthy fats, Vitamin C, Omega-3s, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic option for a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.

Cost Estimation

  • Approximate Cost per Serving: $7.00
  • Budget Tips: Buy citrus fruits in bulk, and consider seasonal produce to keep costs low.

Explore More Gluten-Free dishes: Discover our favorite gluten-free Quinoa salad recipes for every occasion.
Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Learn more about Omega-3 benefits at Harvard Health.