The Secret to the Perfect Low-Carb Caesar Salad Recipe

Published On: February 5, 2025

The Secret to the Perfect Low-Carb Caesar Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh, healthy, and protein-packed salad that fits your low-carb lifestyle? This Keto Salmon Caesar Salad is the perfect choice! Featuring juicy air-fried salmon, creamy homemade Caesar dressing, crisp romaine lettuce, and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is not only delicious but also satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to make, with the salmon ready in under 10 minutes using an air fryer.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

12 oz salmon filets (two 6 oz fillets)
2 teaspoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano)

For the Caesar Dressing:

¼ cup avocado oil mayonnaise
1 large anchovy (finely chopped) or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 pinch black pepper

For the Salad:

3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
4 oz avocado, cubed
1 tablespoon mini capers or chopped capers
2 large hard-boiled eggs, quartered
25 grams shaved Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped chives

Optional:

Keto croutons (use your favorite low-carb bread)

Instructions

1. Cook the Salmon:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs (or oregano).
Place the salmon skin-side down on a piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 7–9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the skin (optional: crisp the skin in the air fryer for another 1–2 minutes if you like it crunchy!).
Flake the salmon into bite-sized chunks.

2. Prepare the Caesar Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chopped anchovy (or anchovy paste), apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, avocado cubes, and capers.
Add the Caesar dressing and toss well to coat the salad evenly.
If using keto croutons, toss them in at this stage.
Plate the salad and top with the flaked salmon, quartered hard-boiled eggs, shaved Parmesan, and chopped chives.

Storage:

The assembled salad is best enjoyed fresh.
For meal prep: Store the salmon, dressing, and eggs separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Combine just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 716 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Net Carbs: 8g
Protein: 47g
Fat: 56g (Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g, Monounsaturated Fat: 9g)
Cholesterol: 319mg
Sodium: 1006mg
Potassium: 1134mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 6668 IU
Vitamin C: 8 mg
Calcium: 245 mg
Iron: 4 mg

Helpful Tips:

Crispy Salmon Skin: Don’t throw away the salmon skin! Crisp it up in the air fryer for 1–2 extra minutes, chop it, and sprinkle over the salad for added crunch.
Egg Tip: To make perfect hard-boiled eggs, boil them for 9–10 minutes, then place in an ice bath to cool quickly.
Keto Croutons: Make quick keto croutons by cubing your favorite low-carb bread, tossing with olive oil and herbs, and air frying until golden.

This Keto Salmon Caesar Salad is a refreshing, nutritious, and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare. The creamy homemade Caesar dressing pairs perfectly with the flaky salmon, crisp romaine, and creamy avocado, while the capers and Parmesan add bold, tangy notes. High in healthy fats and protein, this salad will keep you full and energized. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!