Looking for a healthy and delicious meal that's packed with flavor and nutrients? Look no further than this Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad recipe! This vibrant dish combines the richness of perfectly grilled salmon, bursting with Omega-3 fatty acids, with a refreshing quinoa salad brimming with colorful vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It's a complete protein powerhouse, perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, and easily adaptable to your favorite seasonal vegetables. This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for weeknight meals.
This Grilled Salmon & Quinoa Salad is the ideal meal for those seeking a healthy and flavorful option without sacrificing taste. The combination of textures and flavors creates a culinary experience that's both satisfying and nutritious. Ready to create this delightful dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process!
Tools Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 5-6 oz each, skin removed
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cooked quinoa: 2 cups (approx. ¾ cup uncooked)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber: ½, diced
- Red onion: ½, finely chopped
- Bell pepper: 1, diced
- Arugula or mixed greens: ½ cup
- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil): ¼ cup, chopped
- Olive oil: ¼ cup
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- White wine vinegar: 1 tsp
- Garlic clove: 1, minced
- Cumin or smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Olive oil (for grilling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Marinate Salmon
- Pat salmon dry and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Rinse ¾ cup quinoa and cook per package instructions (roughly 2:1 water to quinoa). Fluff and let cool.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime and lemon juices, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 2. Make the Quinoa Salad
- Combine cooked quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, arugula, and fresh herbs in a bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
Step 3. Grill the Salmon
- Heat grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates. Grill salmon flesh-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until flaky.
Step 4. Assemble & Serve
- Place quinoa salad on a plate. Top with grilled salmon and drizzle with extra dressing or lemon juice.
Read more: Misir Wot: Spicy Ethiopian Lentils Recipe
Tips
- Use pre-cooked quinoa for convenience.
- This salad adds crunch and brightness.
- This dish is gluten-free, customizable, and perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Make sure to thaw it completely before grilling. Pat it dry to ensure a good sear.
2. What kind of quinoa should I use?
Either white or red quinoa will work well. Rinse it before cooking for a fluffier texture.
3. Can I prepare the quinoa salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best to grill the salmon just before serving to maintain its optimal flavor and texture.
This Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Salad is a simple yet elegant meal that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender grilled salmon, nutritious quinoa, and vibrant vegetables – a perfect balance of taste and nutrition for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and create this Omega-3 powerhouse for a truly delightful and healthy dining experience!