Craving a burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds? Look no further than this vibrant Caribbean-inspired Cobb salad. It’s not your typical Cobb; it’s a colorful explosion of fresh mango, creamy coconut dressing, and zesty spiced salmon, all coming together for a meal that’s as bold as it is delicious. And if salmon isn’t your jam, no worries! Swap it out for chicken, shrimp, or any other protein you fancy!
Salad Secrets: It’s All About the Seasoning
Sure, fresh veggies and a killer dressing are crucial, but here’s a pro tip for salad perfection—season your lettuce! Yep, that’s the secret sauce. A sprinkle of salt on the lettuce before you start building your salad ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Flavor Fiesta: The Seasoning Paste
The magic of this salad lies in the seasoning paste, which does double duty for both the salmon and the dressing. Packed with brown sugar, soy sauce, and a medley of spices like garlic, ginger, and thyme, it’s a flavor bomb waiting to explode. And don’t panic if your salmon starts to blacken as it cooks—that’s just the sugar caramelizing for extra depth of flavor.
Ingredients for Culinary Adventure
For the Seasoning Paste:
- 4 tsp. light brown sugar
- 4 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp. onion powder
- 2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp. ground allspice
- 2 Tbsp. plus 2 tsp. fresh lime juice, divided
For the Salad:
- 4 (4-oz.) salmon fillets
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2/3 c. canned coconut milk
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 c. plus 2 tbsp. neutral oil, divided
- 2 large heads of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 mango, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 4 scallions, sliced
- 1 c. chopped purple cabbage
- 1 c. plantain chips
- 3/4 c. cotija cheese
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Paste
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, ginger, allspice, and 4 teaspoons of lime juice until it forms a thick paste. Season each salmon fillet with salt and pepper, then rub them with 2 tablespoons of the seasoning paste. Let them marinate for 10 minutes, reserving the remaining paste for later.
Step 2: Whip Up the Dressing
In another small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, cilantro, 1/4 cup of oil, the remaining 2 teaspoons of lime juice, and the reserved seasoning paste. This creamy, flavorful dressing is the crowning glory of your salad.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for 2 to 3 minutes per side until it flakes easily with a fork, and don’t worry if the marinade darkens—it’s just adding to the flavor. Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate.
Step 4: Build Your Salad Masterpiece
Arrange your chopped romaine lettuce on a platter or individual plates and season it with a pinch of salt. Then, get creative! Arrange rows or small piles of mango, bell pepper, avocado, scallions, cabbage, and plantain chips on top of the lettuce. Sprinkle with cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor, then crown your creation with the spiced salmon.
Step 5: Dress to Impress
Drizzle half of the dressing over your salad masterpiece, season with another pinch of salt, and get ready to indulge. Serve the remaining dressing on the side for those who can’t get enough.
Step 6: Prep Ahead for Convenience
If you’re a planner, you can make the dressing up to 2 days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature and give it a good whisk before serving.
Dive into Flavor Paradise!
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying crunch, this Caribbean Cobb salad with spiced salmon is a culinary journey you won’t soon forget. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and get ready to savor every mouthful of this tropical twist on a classic favorite. Bon appétit!