Zesty Chipotle Salmon Salad

This spicy salmon salad delivers a flavor-packed punch with fewer calories and less fat than regular mayonnaise-laden salmon salad. Because of the big, bold flavors and just a Tablespoon of reduced fat mayo, the salad still tastes rich and is just as satisfying, without sacrificing your waistline. If you find that it's a little too hot and spicy, add just a touch more mayonnaise or a little bit of plain non-fat yogurt to tone down the heat (and use a little less chipotle next time). If you can't find chipotle puree or paste, you can make your own in a blender or food processor using a can or jar of chipotles in adobo sauce (blend or process to a thick, smooth consistency).

To make the salad, I used a 6-oz pouch of pink salmon. You can use the same amount of canned salmon so long as you drain off the excess liquid, or for a real treat, use 6 ounces of leftover grilled, poached or steamed salmon.  I haven't tried doubling this recipe, but don't foresee any problems in doing so.

I served my zesty chipotle salmon salad over a bed of baby lettuces with thinly sliced cucumbers, but you can certainly enjoy it on other types of green salads, or as a filling for wraps, sandwiches or pitas, or even as a dip with raw vegetables, crackers, pita chips or other dippables.

Ingredients
1 6-oz pouch salmon (or well-drained can, or equivalent amount of cooked salmon)

Chipotle Salmon Salad

1/4 cup finely chopped green onion, including green part
1/4 cup finely chopped pimiento
1 Tbs chipotle puree or paste
1 Tbs reduced-fat mayonnaise (or fat-free if preferred)
1 Tbs finely chopped cilantro
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Use a fork to break up and flake the salmon in a bowl.  Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until thoroughly combined. Serve over green salad, or as a sandwich filling, or as a dip. Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container.

Zestfully yours,
Gloria

PS: If you love salmon, you'll swoon over the fresh Atlantic salmon available from our partner The Crab Place, whose online seafood specials can't be beat!