Grilled Cod Salad: The Easiest Summer Recipe EVER!

December 25, 2025

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grilled cod salad. It's more than just a meal, to me; it's a burst of sunshine on a plate, a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors, and a culinary hug all rolled into one. When summer rolls around, this is my go to dish. The light, flaky cod, kissed by the grill, dances with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. This grilled cod salad perfectly showcases simple ingredients prepared brilliantly.

My grandmother, the inspiration behind gotastyrecipes.com, always said, "The best meals are made with love and whatever's fresh." This salad embodies that philosophy. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out, and I’m so excited to share this joyful recipe with you!

Why You Will Love This grilled cod salad Recipe

This grilled cod salad recipe is destined to become a favorite for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. Throwing it together on a busy weeknight feels manageable, and on a lazy weekend, it’s pure joy.

The flavor profile is truly outstanding. The smoky char of the grilled cod complements the crisp, refreshing vegetables beautifully, and the tangy dressing ties everything together seamlessly. The combination is light, satisfying, and unforgettable. Plus, it's a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a protein packed meal. Just like my Air Fryer Cod Salad, this meal offers multiple ways to create a tasty salad.

Finally, this recipe is exceptionally versatile. You can easily adapt it to your liking, using different vegetables, herbs, or dressings. I personally love sharing meals like a Grilled Cod Rice Bowl with my family. No matter what you choose, this grilled cod salad is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Needed for This grilled cod salad Recipe

Here are the ingredients you'll need to create this delightful grilled cod salad. Remember to choose fresh, high quality ingredients, as they make all the difference in flavor.

For the Grilled Cod:
- 1 pound cod fillets, skin off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 5 ounces mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This grilled cod salad Recipe

Now, let's dive into the easy steps of making this delicious grilled cod salad. Follow along and enjoy the process!

Preheat your grill to medium heat. If you don't have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Brush the cod fillets with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated.

Place the cod fillets on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking fish can be tricky, but a quick glance at a fork gently pressed on the top side, you'll be able to tell if the fish is done!
While the cod is grilling, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste for the dressing.
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Then, flake the cod into bite size pieces.

Add the flaked cod to the salad bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing and flavorful grilled cod salad! If you're a fan of casserole style meals, you can even transform this recipe into a Grilled Cod Casserole.

How to Serve This grilled cod salad Recipe

Serving this grilled cod salad is all about presentation and flavor enhancement.

For a simple yet elegant presentation, arrange the dressed salad on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.

Pair your grilled cod salad with a side of crusty bread or grilled pita for dipping into the flavorful dressing. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the light and refreshing flavors perfectly.

Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top for extra creaminess. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salad.

How to Store This grilled cod salad Recipe

Proper storage will help maintain the freshness and flavor of your grilled cod salad.

Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to store the salad undressed and add the dressing just before serving, as the dressing can make the greens soggy. The grilled cod can also be stored separately in an airtight container.
Freezing: Freezing the salad is not recommended, as the greens and vegetables will become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the grilled cod separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer safe bag.
Reheating: If you freeze the cod, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Reheat the cod gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the fish.

The refrigerated salad will last for up to 2 days, while the frozen cod can be stored for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make This grilled cod salad Recipe

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results when making this grilled cod salad.

Ingredient Swaps:
- If you don't have cod, you can use other flaky white fish like haddock or tilapia.
- Feel free to substitute the mixed greens with spinach, romaine lettuce, or kale.
- Use different vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery.
Success Tips:
- Don't overcook the cod; it should be cooked through but still moist and tender.
- Make sure the grill is hot before placing the cod on it to achieve nice grill marks.
- Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the greens and vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Avoid using pre shredded cheese because it contains cellulose which will impact the ability for the cheese to melt.
- Using too much dressing can make the salad soggy, so add it gradually and toss gently.
Pro Tips:
- Marinate the cod for 30 minutes before grilling to add extra flavor.
- Use a high quality olive oil for the best taste.

Helpful Notes for This grilled cod salad Recipe

Here are some extra clarifications and ingredient details to keep in mind.

Cod: Cod is a lean, mild flavored fish that's an excellent source of protein and omega 3 fatty acids. It's readily available in most grocery stores, either fresh or frozen.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the dressing and grilling. It has a rich flavor and provides healthy fats.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dressing. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it can have a metallic taste.
Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.

Remember to adjust salt and pepper to your taste preference.

Variation of This grilled cod salad Recipe

Here are a few variations to spice up your grilled cod salad.

Seasonal Twists: Use seasonal vegetables like grilled corn, peaches, or berries in the summer, or roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or pomegranates in the fall.
Optional Versions: Add some grilled halloumi cheese for a savory and salty flavor.
Creative Modifications: Use a different dressing, such as a creamy avocado dressing, a balsamic vinaigrette, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to grill cod for salad?

The best way to grill cod for salad is to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates and grill the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

What vegetables go well in grilled cod salad?

Many vegetables pair well with grilled cod salad. Popular options include crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, and fresh herbs like parsley and dill.

What kind of dressing is best for grilled cod salad?

A light and zesty dressing complements grilled cod salad perfectly. Consider a lemon vinaigrette, a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing, or a creamy dill sauce to enhance the flavors of the fish and vegetables.

Can I use frozen cod for grilled cod salad?

Yes, you can use frozen cod for grilled cod salad. Be sure to thaw the cod completely before grilling, and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture for better grilling results.

Conclusion

This grilled cod salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a refreshing and satisfying meal that's both healthy and delicious. It's incredibly versatile, easy to make, and customizable to your liking. A simple salad packed with flavor, this grilled cod salad is worth trying.

I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different vegetables, dressings, and herbs. Don't forget to share your creations and let me know what you think in the comments below!