Skip to main content

Pan-Roasted Salmon With Grapefruit-Cabbage Slaw

This vibrant pan-roasted salmon with grapefruit-cabbage slaw is a standout choice for a nutritious midweek meal. The dish brings together succulent fillets of wild-caught salmon with a bright, citrus-forward salad that cuts through the richness of the fish. By pan-frying the salmon skin-side down first, you achieve a beautifully crisp finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy avocado and crunchy Savoy cabbage.

As a heart-healthy main course, this recipe is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins. The zesty dressing, made using reserved grapefruit juice and a touch of Greek yogurt, provides a creamy texture without the need for heavy oils. It is an excellent option for those seeking a light yet satisfying dinner that feels sophisticated enough for weekend entertaining while remaining simple to prepare.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Pan-Roasted Salmon With Grapefruit-Cabbage Slaw

  • 1 large pink grapefruit, cut into supremes, juice reserved

  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped

  • 5 (110g) salmon fillets, preferably wild- caught sockeye or king, skin on, pin bones removed

  • Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon plain Greek yoghurt

  • 1/2 ripe avocado, cut into 1/2-inch dice

  • 1/2 medium Savoy cabbage head, cored and very thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, for serving

How to make Pan-Roasted Salmon With Grapefruit-Cabbage Slaw

Combine the grapefruit juice and shallot in a small bowl; set aside.

Score the skin side of the salmon and season all over with salt and pepper.

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium- high heat. Place the salmon skin side down in the skillet. Cook until the skin is browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Flip the fillets, reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the fish is barely opaque at the centre of each fillet, about 4 more minutes. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the grapefruit juice–shallot mixture, yoghurt, and remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the grapefruit segments, avocado, and cabbage and toss gently to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top the slaw with coriander and serve alongside the salmon.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.