Garlic Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad
This Garlic Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition.Tender salmon is marinated in a zesty garlic-herb dressing, grilled until perfectly flaky, and served alongside a refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables, lemon, and fresh herbs.
It’s light, high in protein, and ideal for a wholesome weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Garlic Herb Grilled Salmon
4 salmon fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp thyme or rosemary
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Quinoa Salad
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, diced
¼ red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
For the Lemon Herb Dressing
3 tbsp olive oil
1½ tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa under cold water.
In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or broth).
Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover.
Simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Salmon Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Brush over the salmon fillets.
Let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Salmon
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Lightly oil the grates.
Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until opaque and flaky.
Squeeze extra lemon juice over the top before serving.
Step 4: Assemble the Quinoa Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, feta, and herbs.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour over the salad.
Toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve
Place a portion of quinoa salad on each plate.
Top with a grilled salmon fillet.
Garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge.
Notes & Tips
For extra flavor: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the salad.
No grill? You can pan-sear or bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes.
Make it creamy: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt herb sauce or tzatziki on the side.
Meal prep: Both components keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?
Yes — couscous, bulgur, or brown rice also work well.
Q: What kind of salmon is best?
Wild-caught salmon (like sockeye or coho) has great flavor and texture for grilling.
Q: Can I serve it cold?
Absolutely — it’s delicious chilled for a light lunch or picnic meal.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~540 kcal
Protein: 40g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 4g