If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful meal, this zesty lemon herb grilled salmon paired with a refreshing quinoa salad is just what you need. The combination of tender salmon infused with fresh herbs and a light citrus dressing makes for a dish that’s both satisfying and invigorating.

This recipe is perfect for a summer dinner or a healthy weeknight meal. The salmon is grilled to perfection, while the quinoa salad adds a delightful crunch and a medley of vegetables. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and is packed with nutrients.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself cooking this salmon dish over and over again. The taste is a harmonious blend of savory and tangy, making it a family favorite.

Grilled Salmon: A Flavorful Delight

The star of this meal is, without a doubt, the grilled salmon. Its flaky texture and the infusion of fresh herbs create a delightful experience for the palate.

Marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of dill and parsley, the fish is not only flavorful but also vibrant. Grilling the salmon brings out its natural oils, enhancing its taste and making it a standout dish.

Vibrant Quinoa Salad

Alongside the salmon, the quinoa salad provides a refreshing contrast. Made primarily with quinoa, this salad boasts a colorful array of vegetables including crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sweet bell peppers.

The lightness of the salad perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, making for a balanced meal. A dressing made from balsamic vinegar adds a zesty twist that ties the entire dish together.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Utilizing fresh herbs and vegetables elevates the flavors significantly. Fresh dill and parsley not only enhance the salmon but also add a visual appeal to the plate.

Choosing seasonal vegetables for the salad enhances its texture and flavor. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving a vibrant and nutritious meal.

Presentation Matters

The visual aspect of this dish is equally appealing. A beautifully plated serving of salmon garnished with herbs, paired with the colorful quinoa salad, creates an enticing presentation.

The addition of a bright yellow lemon wedge not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the zesty flavors within. Serving this meal on a rustic wooden table enhances the dining experience, making it suitable for any occasion.

Meal Versatility

This salmon and quinoa combination works wonderfully for various settings. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish is versatile and sure to impress.

Its healthy ingredients and nutritional profile make it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet, while the delightful flavors can cater to all tastes.

Quick and Simple Preparation

Preparing this dish is straightforward and doesn’t require extensive culinary skills. With a total time of about 40 minutes, it’s an efficient choice for any home cook.

The steps are simple: marinating the salmon, cooking the quinoa, grilling the fish, and tossing the salad together makes for a quick yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Delicious and Nutritious Salmon and Quinoa Meal

The grilled salmon has a succulent, flaky texture with a tangy brightness from the lemon, complemented by the aromatic herbs. The quinoa salad is light and refreshing, featuring crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup quinoa rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 cucumber diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1 bell pepper diced
1/4 red onion finely chopped
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon fillets and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
Grill the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakey.
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion. In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey (if using), and pour over the salad. Toss to combine.
Serve: Plate the grilled salmon alongside the quinoa salad. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the salmon for extra flavor.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g