Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients* If using smoked salmon from a package, you’ go! If using a cooked salmon fillet, break it into bite-sized flakes. * Dice your avocado into ½-inch cubes. To make this easier, slice your avocado in half, remove the pit, score the flesh in a grid pattern, and scoop it out with a spoon. * Wash your baby spinach or mixed greens thoroughly and dry them well. A salad spinner works great for this! Pat dry if needed to ensure the dressing sticks properly. * Give your blueberries a quick rinse under cool water and pat them dry. * If using walnuts, give them a rough chop for better distribution throughout the salad. * Thinly slice half of a small red onion. Soaking the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes can help mellow its sharp flavor if you prefer a milder taste.

Step 2: Create the Honey-Chia Seed Vinaigrette* In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup olive oil, 2 Tbsp apple-cider vinegar, 1 Tbsp chia seeds, 1 Tbsp honey, and ¼ tsp salt. * Whisk everything together vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture begins to emulsify and slightly thicken. The chia seeds will start to absorb some of the liquid, helping create a more cohesive dressing. * Set aside and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chia seeds to soften a bit more.

Step 3: Assemble Your Brain Power Salad* In a large bowl, start with a bed of your fresh spinach or mixed greens. This creates a wonderful base packed with vitamins. * Gently flake the smoked salmon over the greens, distributing it evenly. * Add the diced avocado, fresh blueberries, sliced red onion, walnuts (if using), and feta or blue-cheese crumbles to the bowl. * At this point, you have two options: 1. **For immediate serving**: Give the salad a light toss to gently combine the ingredients. 2. **For meal prep**: Layer the ingredients attractively without mixing, storing the dressing separately until ready to serve.

Step 4: Dress and Serve* Drizzle your honey-chia seed vinaigrette over the salad. Start with about half, then add more to taste. You might not need all the dressing, depending on your preference. * Using salad servers or two large spoons, gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. Be gentle to avoid mashing the avocado or breaking up the salmon too much. * Portion the salad into serving bowls and enjoy immediately.