Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings together fresh ingredients that shine on their own. The harmonious combination of lemon herb salmon, creamy avocado, and hearty quinoa creates a meal that’s as light as it is filling. It’s a perfect option for meal prepping, as you can prepare each component in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to enjoy a nourishing dish. You can also modify it according to your taste preferences by adding in your favorite vegetables or toppings, making it an endlessly adaptable option for healthy eating!

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 rinsed quinoa and either water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is fluffy. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the salmon: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use this flavorful blend to brush over the salmon fillets evenly.
3. Cook the salmon: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan and cook them for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily when poked with a fork.
4. Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper until everything is nicely combined.
5. Assemble the bowls: To create your bowls, evenly distribute the cooked quinoa between two serving bowls. Top each portion with a salmon fillet, slices of avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
6. Add the dressing: Drizzle the homemade lemon herb dressing generously over the assembled bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that fresh touch.
7. Serve and enjoy: Dig in and relish the vibrant flavors of your freshly made, nutrient-packed meal!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after assembly. However, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and put the bowls together right before serving. To maintain the freshness and texture, add the avocado and dressing just before digging in.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in separate airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the quinoa and salmon before assembling your bowls again with the fresh ingredients.

Helpful Notes

• If you’re looking for a delightful crunch, consider adding a handful of toasted nuts or seeds to your bowl.
• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to sprinkle on some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
• Don’t hesitate to switch out quinoa for your favorite grains or even couscous, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just ensure that the salmon is completely thawed before cooking and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just double-check that any mustard or condiments used are also dairy-free.

3. What can I substitute for quinoa?
If quinoa isn’t your preference, you can opt for brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.

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

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