Grilled Salmon Quinoa Bowl Recipe
Description
This Grilled Salmon Quinoa Bowl is a wholesome, protein-packed dish perfect for lunch or dinner. It combines the heart-healthy omega-3s from salmon with nutrient-rich quinoa and a medley of fresh vegetables. A zesty lemon-garlic dressing ties everything together for a balanced, flavorful meal.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Salmon:
2 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa:
1 cup cooked quinoa (1/3 cup uncooked)
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tbsp olive oil
For the Bowl Toppings:
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
2 tbsp feta cheese (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Lemon-Garlic Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Salmon (10 minutes)
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub the marinade on the salmon fillets and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Quinoa (15 minutes if not pre-cooked)
Rinse quinoa under cold water. Add to a pot with double the water and a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy.
Drizzle with olive oil and fluff with a fork.
3. Grill the Salmon (8–10 minutes)
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat.
Grill salmon skin-side down first, for about 4–5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Make the Dressing (2 minutes)
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a jar or small bowl. Shake or whisk until emulsified.
5. Assemble the Bowls (5 minutes)
Divide quinoa into bowls.
Top with grilled salmon, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, carrots, red cabbage, and feta.
Drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with herbs.
Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Note: Values are approximate and will vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands.
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Omega-3s: ~2g
Sodium: 380mg
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
A: Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or farro.
Q2: Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
A: Yes, store the components separately and assemble before serving. Keep dressing in a sealed container.
Q3: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: Pan-searing or baking the salmon works just as well. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes.
Q4: Is this bowl gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Just omit the feta
or use a plant-based alternative.