This is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish where spice-rubbed salmon is grilled to perfection, then topped with a creamy, fresh avocado salsa. It comes together in about 10 minutes (plus a short marinating time) and makes an impressive yet easy weeknight or weekend meal.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances bold flavors with simplicity. The spice rub gives the salmon a rich, smoky kick, and the avocado salsa adds brightness and creaminess. It feels fresh, satisfying, and not fussy. Also, it’s one of those recipes I can pull off even when time is tight—I don’t have to worry about multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon:

• Salmon fillets (skin on or off)

• Olive oil

• Kosher salt

• Ancho chili powder

• Ground cumin

• Paprika

• Onion powder

• Ground black pepper

For the avocado salsa:

• Avocado, cubed

• Red onion, sliced or diced

• Limes, juiced

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Mix together the salt, ancho chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper to make the spice rub.

2. Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil and coat evenly with the spice blend.

3. Refrigerate the seasoned salmon for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.

4. Meanwhile, prepare the salsa by combining the cubed avocado, diced red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Chill until serving time.

5. Preheat the grill to medium (about 350–375 °F / ~175–190 °C).

6. Grill the salmon for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. If the salmon doesn’t release easily from the grill, let it cook an extra 30–60 seconds before flipping.

7. Once cooked, top each fillet with the avocado salsa and serve immediately.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Total time (not counting marinating): 10 minutes

If I include the 30 minutes marinating time, I usually plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Swap the spice rub: If I prefer milder flavors, I reduce or omit the ancho chili powder. Or, I add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra heat.

• Add fruit to the salsa: I sometimes dice mango or pineapple and mix it into the avocado salsa for a tropical twist.

• Use a skillet or broiler: If I don’t have a grill, I sear the salmon in a hot skillet or broil it in the oven until cooked through.

• Change herbs: I switch out the cilantro with parsley or basil depending on what I have or what I’m craving.

• Make it a bowl: I serve the grilled salmon over rice, quinoa, or greens and spoon the salsa on top for a hearty meal.

Storage/Reheating

• I store leftover grilled salmon (without salsa) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• I reheat it gently in a low oven (around 275 °F / ~135 °C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• I can freeze the cooked salmon (not the salsa) in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 4 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• I don’t recommend freezing the salsa, as avocado texture suffers when thawed.

FAQs

What Internal Temperature Should The Salmon Reach?

I aim for an internal temperature of 145 °F (about 63 °C), which ensures the salmon is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I Marinate The Salmon Longer Than 30 Minutes?

Yes — I can marinate it for up to 1 hour. I avoid marinating too long because the citrus in the salsa could start to affect the fish’s texture.

What If I Don’t Have A Grill?

I sear the salmon in a hot oven-safe skillet or broil it in the oven. The flavors still come through nicely even without a grill.

Can I Prepare The Salsa Ahead Of Time?

Yes, but I prefer making it closer to serving time so the avocado doesn’t brown. If I need to prep ahead, I keep the avocado out until the last minute and store the rest separately.

Is This Recipe Appropriate For People Watching Sodium Or Spices?

Absolutely. I adjust the salt or skip some spices to suit my needs. The lime juice and avocado still deliver a ton of flavor even with lighter seasoning.

Conclusion

This grilled salmon with avocado salsa is one of my go-to recipes when I want something fast, healthy, and satisfying. It hits a perfect balance—bold enough to feel special, but easy enough for any night of the week. The combination of smoky, spiced salmon with creamy, zesty salsa keeps me coming back.

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