Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl

This Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl is a nourishing, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner. Combining tender, flaky salmon with creamy avocado, fluffy quinoa, and a bright lemon herb dressing, this bowl is a balanced and satisfying meal. The zesty herbs and citrusy flavors complement the richness of the salmon and avocado, making every bite refreshing and delicious. Plus, it’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it as nutritious as it is tasty!

Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and incredibly versatile. The lemon herb salmon pairs perfectly with the quinoa and creamy avocado, creating a meal that’s both light and satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, as the components can be made ahead and assembled when you’re ready to eat. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies and toppings, making it a go-to bowl that’s deliciously healthy!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Bowl:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets.
  3. Cook the salmon: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly between two bowls. Top each with a salmon fillet, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  6. Add the dressing: Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal!

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the bowls when ready to eat. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the quinoa and salmon before assembling and adding the fresh ingredients.

Helpful Notes

  • For a bit of extra crunch, add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds to the bowl.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a little sriracha over the finished dish.
  • Feel free to swap out the quinoa for brown rice, couscous, or your favorite grain.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking and pat it dry to remove any excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just make sure any mustard or other condiments used are also dairy-free.

3. What can I substitute for quinoa?
If you’re not a fan of quinoa, you can use rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

4. How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing it?
Absolutely! Bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl is a fresh, light, and nutritious meal that’s full of flavor. With its combination of tender salmon, creamy avocado, and fluffy quinoa, it’s the perfect dish for when you want to eat something delicious and healthy. Easy to customize and packed with protein, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this beautiful bowl!

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