Pacific Coast Char-Grilled Salmon Wraps with Zesty Lemon-Dill Aioli

🌍 Cuisine: American
🏷️ Category: Main Course
⏱️ Prep: 20 minutes
🍳 Cook: 10-12 minutes
👥 Serves: 4 servings

📝 About This Recipe

Experience the ultimate fusion of fresh seafood and handheld convenience with this elevated take on fast-food classics. Succulent Atlantic salmon fillets are seasoned with a smoky house rub and grilled to flaky perfection before being nestled into warm, pillowy flour tortillas. Complemented by a crisp vegetable slaw and a velvety lemon-dill aioli, these wraps offer a sophisticated, nutrient-dense alternative to traditional drive-thru fare.

🥗 Ingredients

The Salmon & Rub

  • 1.5 pounds Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets (skin removed, cut into 1-inch thick strips)
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (or to taste)

Lemon-Dill Aioli

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (high quality or avocado oil based)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • 1 teaspoon Honey (to balance acidity)

The Wrap & Fillings

  • 4 pieces Large Flour Tortillas (10-inch diameter, warmed)
  • 1 cup English Cucumber (thinly sliced into half-moons)
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion (very thinly shaved)
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach or Arugula (washed and dried)
  • 1 large Avocado (sliced into wedges)
  • 1/4 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

  2. 2

    Pat the salmon strips dry with paper towels. In a small ramekin, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and then sprinkle the spice rub evenly over all sides, pressing gently so it adheres.

  4. 4

    Preheat your grill or a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

  5. 5

    Place the salmon strips on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. The salmon should have visible grill marks and flake easily with a fork but remain slightly translucent in the center (medium-rare to medium).

  6. 6

    Remove the salmon from the heat and transfer to a plate. Squeeze a little extra lemon juice over them and let them rest for 2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Briefly place the flour tortillas on the grill for 15-20 seconds per side until they are warm and pliable with light char marks.

  8. 8

    Lay a warm tortilla on a clean work surface. Spread a generous tablespoon of the lemon-dill aioli down the center.

  9. 9

    Layer a handful of baby spinach, followed by 2-3 slices of cucumber and a few slivers of red onion.

  10. 10

    Place a portion of the grilled salmon on top of the vegetables. Add 2 slices of avocado and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

  11. 11

    Fold the bottom of the tortilla up over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly from the bottom to create a secure wrap.

  12. 12

    Slice the wrap diagonally in half and serve immediately while the salmon is still warm.

💡 Chef's Tips

Always pat your salmon dry before seasoning; moisture is the enemy of a good sear and will cause the fish to steam rather than grill. Don't overcook the salmon! It continues to cook for a minute after being removed from the heat. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). If you find red onions too pungent, soak the slices in ice water for 10 minutes before serving to mellow their bite. For a low-carb version, swap the flour tortilla for large butter lettuce leaves or a collard green wrap. To make it extra 'fast food' style, wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to keep everything held together while eating on the go.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or seasoned potato wedges for a classic fast-food feel. Pair with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light pilsner beer to cut through the richness of the salmon. A side of vinegar-based coleslaw provides a bright crunch that complements the creamy aioli. Serve with a small bowl of extra aioli for dipping. For a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing, try an iced green tea with a splash of peach nectar.