Pacific Northwest Perfected: Washington's Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe

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Washington State, known for its stunning coastlines and vibrant fishing culture, offers some of the freshest seafood in the country. Among its many delicacies, salmon stands out as a staple, often celebrated in homes and restaurants alike. One dish that perfectly showcases this versatile fish is the Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing, which brings together the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest with a delightful Asian-inspired twist.

This salad isn't just about freshness; it's about Washington's love for clean, simple ingredients, letting the natural flavors shine through. From wild-caught salmon to crisp vegetables, every bite is a testament to the region’s bounty. Paired with a sesame dressing that adds a bit of zing, this salad is the perfect blend of light, satisfying, and nutritious. Whether you're enjoying it on a sunny afternoon or serving it up at a dinner party, Washington's Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing is bound to impress.

A Taste of Washington's Seafood Legacy Salmon fishing has been a key part of Washington’s history and culture for centuries. The cold, clear waters of the Puget Sound and surrounding rivers produce some of the best wild salmon in the world. When prepared correctly, the natural richness of the fish shines, and in this salad, it's balanced beautifully with crisp greens, creamy avocado, and a sesame-infused dressing. It’s a dish that represents both the traditional and modern influences of the state’s culinary scene.

Recipe: Washington’s Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 5 oz each, preferably wild-caught from the Pacific Northwest)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
3. Brush a small amount of the dressing over the salmon fillets. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, avocado, cucumber, and red onion.
5. Once the salmon is cooked, let it cool slightly, then break it into large flakes and add it to the salad.
6. Drizzle the remaining sesame dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving.

The Perfect Pacific Northwest Pairing Washington’s Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing is a dish that embodies the region’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The light, nutty flavor of sesame oil complements the naturally rich salmon, while the honey adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the tang of rice vinegar. Every bite takes you to the shores of the Pacific, with the crispness of the vegetables adding texture to the experience.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. It can be a light lunch, a perfect starter, or even the main event at dinner. The flavors are balanced and the ingredients are fresh, creating a dish that’s both elegant and simple to prepare. For Washingtonians, this salmon salad is a celebration of the state’s rich culinary heritage, highlighting the beloved salmon in an exciting new way.

Here are some great sources for the Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing recipe, each providing variations and additional tips:

1. Nourished by Nutrition offers a Roasted Salmon Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing. This version highlights the use of wild-caught salmon, particularly recommending King (Chinook) or Sockeye salmon, and includes a homemade sesame ginger dressing. This recipe emphasizes the health benefits of using fresh greens and provides flexibility in the salad mix​(Nourished By Nutrition).
2. Recipes.net provides a Salmon Salad with Sesame Dressing that includes mixed greens, avocado, and a sesame-based dressing. This recipe keeps the preparation simple and fast, making it great for a quick, nutritious meal​(Recipes.net).
3. Sunkissed Kitchen presents a Spicy Asian Salmon Salad with a creamy sesame dressing. This version introduces a spicier twist with sriracha and a blend of shredded cabbage and fresh veggies like avocado and cucumber, offering a unique variation of the classic salad​(Sunkissed Kitchen).
4. Salt & Lavender features a toasted sesame seed dressing and marinated salmon, with a focus on balancing flavors like soy sauce, hoisin, and ginger. The salmon is baked to perfection and paired with fresh greens, avocado, and cucumber​(Salt & Lavender).
5. The Cook’s Pantry gives a take on Seared Salmon with Sesame Dressing. This version focuses on using fresh ingredients like cucumber ribbons and bell peppers, while the sesame dressing incorporates mirin and soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor​(The Cook's Pantry | Watch now on Tenplay).

Each of these sources offers a unique spin on the dish, so you can try different versions depending on your preferences!