Dairy Free Salmon and Cucumber Salad
Bright, refreshing, and packed with clean flavors, this poached salmon and cucumber salad is the kind of dish that feels both light and genuinely satisfying. The salmon is gently poached in ginger-infused water, which keeps it incredibly tender and flaky without any butter or cream in sight — making it a naturally great fit for anyone avoiding dairy. Creamy diced avocado steps in to add richness, so you never feel like anything is missing. The dressing is a simple whisk of apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh ginger, and honey — nothing hidden, nothing to second-guess. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint lift the whole bowl, while scallion greens and cucumber keep every bite crisp and cool. It comes together quickly and is best served right away, making it a smart choice for a weeknight dinner or a lunch that actually impresses.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salmon
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin-on
- 4 cups water
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 slices fresh ginger
For the dressing
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 tsp honey
- ¼ tsp salt
For the salad
- 1 large english cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
- 1 large avocado, pitted and diced
- 4 scallions, green tops only, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water, salt, and ginger slices in a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slide the salmon fillet in skin-side down, reduce the heat to low, and poach until the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part, about 10–12 minutes. The flesh should be opaque throughout and flake easily when pressed.
- 2
Transfer the salmon to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes. Discard the poaching liquid and ginger slices. Once cool enough to handle, peel away and discard the skin, then flake the salmon into large chunks.
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