This Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Breakfast Salad offers a refreshing, protein-packed start to your day without any eggs. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and a perfect healthy breakfast no eggs idea when you need something light yet satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Smoked Salmon: You can use hot-smoked or cold-smoked.
- Cucumber: English cucumber works best for its crispness.
- Dill: Fresh dill is essential for flavor. Chives or parsley can be used in a pinch.
- Red Onion: Adds a zesty bite. Shallots are a good alternative.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens everything.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred.
- Cream Cheese: Or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt can offer a tangier dressing.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz (115g) smoked salmon, flaked or diced
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional, for creamier dressing)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (varies with ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables
Begin by thinly slicing or dicing your English cucumber. Finely chop the red onion and fresh dill. Place them all into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
2. Flake the Smoked Salmon
Take your smoked salmon and gently flake it into smaller pieces or dice it. Add the salmon to the bowl with the prepared vegetables.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice. If you’re using cream cheese, add it to this mixture and whisk until smooth for a creamier dressing.
4. Combine and Season
Pour the dressing over the salmon and cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
5. Serve Immediately
Your healthy breakfast no eggs salad is ready to enjoy. Serve it immediately for the best fresh flavor and texture.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of mixed greens for a larger salad.
- Stir in some capers for an extra briny kick.
- Top with everything bagel seasoning for more flavor and crunch.
- Include avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.
Storage Instructions:
You can store any leftover Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Breakfast Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The cucumber may soften slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to make only what you plan to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you prepare this salad ahead of time?
A: You can chop the vegetables and flake the salmon ahead of time, but it’s best to mix everything together just before serving to prevent the cucumber from getting watery.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it can be a good healthy breakfast no eggs option for meal prep if you keep the dressing separate and combine right before eating.
Q: What if you don’t like dill?
A: You can substitute fresh chives or parsley for the dill, or omit it entirely if you prefer.
Q: Can you add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Consider adding chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Breakfast Salad is naturally gluten-free.
Q: What can you serve this salad with?
A: You can enjoy it on its own, with gluten-free crackers, or wrapped in a lettuce cup for a low-carb option.