Can a dish be creamy, fresh, light, and rich at the same time? Salmon and Avocado Salad サーモンとアボカドのサラダ proves that it can. This simple Japanese-style salad brings together soft salmon, buttery avocado, and smooth cream cheese in one refreshing bite. It looks elegant, tastes balanced, and comes together in very little time, making it perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Salmon and Avocado Salad is loved for its clean flavors and smooth texture. It does not need cooking, which keeps the ingredients fresh and vibrant. The combination of raw salmon, avocado, and cream cheese creates a soft and creamy base, while the seasoning adds gentle saltiness and brightness.

This recipe is often served in cups or small bowls, making it perfect for parties, meal prep, or light meals.

Quick Facts Salmon and Avocado Salad サーモンとアボカドのサラダ

Difficulty

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Easy

Total Time

10–15 minutes no cooking required

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Essential Ingredients

Key Ingredients (材料)

Salmon & Avocado Salad

These fresh ingredients create the creamy texture and clean flavor of Japanese-style Salmon and Avocado Salad. Each card explains the role of the ingredient and possible substitutions.

Sashimi-Grade Salmon (150g)

Fresh sashimi salmon provides richness, softness, and clean umami flavor. High-quality salmon is essential for raw preparation.

Avocado (150g)

Ripe avocado adds creaminess and balances the savory salmon. It should be soft but firm enough to hold its shape.

Cream Cheese (60g)

Cream cheese adds body and smoothness, helping all ingredients blend into a soft and cohesive salad.

Thread Agar (3g)

Soaked and chopped agar adds light texture and helps keep the layered salad neat and well-balanced.

Seasoning Mix

Olive oil, soy sauce, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper create a mild Japanese-style dressing that enhances the natural flavors.

Mayonnaise (2 tsp)

Mayonnaise gently coats the avocado, adding richness while keeping the salad smooth and mellow.

Dill or Chervil

Fresh herbs add aroma and a clean finish, making the salad feel light and refined.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the sashimi salmon, avocado, and cream cheese into neat 1.5 cm cubes. Soak the thread agar in water for about 10 minutes until soft, then drain well and chop finely.

Step 2: Season the Avocado

Place the avocado cubes in a bowl. Add mayonnaise, a small pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix gently so the avocado keeps its shape.

Step 3: Season the Salmon and Cream Cheese

In another bowl, combine salmon and cream cheese. Add olive oil, soy sauce, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and coarsely ground black pepper. Mix softly until coated evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Layer the avocado, agar, salmon, and cream cheese into a cup or bowl. Repeat layers if desired. Finish with finely chopped agar on top and garnish with dill or chervil.

Secrets to Success and Expert Tips

These simple tips help you make a fresh, creamy, and well-balanced Salmon and Avocado Salad every time:

• ♥
  Use sashimi-grade salmon only
  High-quality salmon is important for raw dishes. Fresh salmon gives the salad a clean taste and soft texture.
• ♥
  Cut ingredients into even cubes
  Keeping the salmon, avocado, and cream cheese the same size helps each bite feel balanced and neat.
• ♥
  Mix gently, not roughly
  Stir softly to protect the shape of the salmon and avocado. Overmixing can make the salad mushy.
• ♥
  Chill before serving
  Light chilling improves texture and flavor, making the salad feel fresher and more refined.
• ♥
  Season lightly and taste
  Salmon and avocado have natural flavor. Gentle seasoning keeps the dish clean and well-balanced.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

Building this salad is simple, but presentation makes it special.

How to Assemble

• Start with avocado at the bottom
• Add a small layer of agar
• Follow with salmon and cream cheese
• Repeat layers if using a tall cup

Presentation Ideas

• Serve in clear glass cups to show layers
• Use small bowls for an elegant appetizer
• Add herbs just before serving for freshness

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage

• Store covered in the refrigerator
• Best eaten within 24 hours
• Keep at 4°C or colder

Make-Ahead Tips

• Cut ingredients separately and store airtight
• Assemble just before serving for best texture
• Do not freeze, as avocado texture will change

Recipe Variations

Salmon and Avocado Salad is easy to adjust. You can change the flavor, texture, or presentation to match your taste or the ingredients you have at home.

1

Change the Flavor

Small additions can create a new taste:

• Add a little wasabi for gentle heat
• Use yuzu juice instead of lemon
• Mix in toasted sesame oil for depth

2

Adjust the Texture

Change how the salad feels with simple swaps:

• Add cucumber for light crunch
• Replace cream cheese with soft tofu
• Use finely chopped onion for sharpness

3

Try Different Seafood

Salmon can be replaced with other options:

• Tuna sashimi for a cleaner taste
• Cooked shrimp for a lighter option
• Crab sticks for a casual deli style

4

Change the Presentation

Serve the salad in different ways:

• Layer in a glass cup for a clean look
• Serve on toasted bread as an appetizer
• Place on rice for a light donburi bowl

Health Benefits

• Salmon provides high-quality protein and healthy fats
• Avocado supports heart health and digestion
• This salad is low in carbs and very filling
• No cooking keeps nutrients intact

Recipes to Pair with Salmon and Avocado Salad

Salmon and Avocado Salad goes well with warm Japanese sides. Japanese Croquettes (Korokke) お母さんのコロッケ add a crispy and comforting contrast, while Gyoza Roll (餃子ロール) brings a light crunch and savory flavor. Together, these dishes create a simple and well-balanced Japanese meal.

Conclusion

Salmon and Avocado Salad サーモンとアボカドのサラダ is simple, fresh, and versatile. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it delivers both flavor and elegance. Its creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and beautiful presentation make it a perfect choice for quick meals, entertaining, or healthy eating.

FAQs

Can I use regular salmon instead of sashimi-grade?

Sashimi-grade salmon is recommended for raw dishes. Cooked salmon can be used if needed.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

It is best eaten within 24 hours when stored in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes. It contains healthy fats, protein, and fresh ingredients.

Can I make it without agar?

Yes. Agar adds texture, but the salad still works without it.

Can this be served as a main dish?

Yes. Increase portion size and serve with rice or bread.

Did you make this recipe?

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