Description
Mediterranean Salmon and Vegetable Quinoa is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender, spice-rubbed salmon paired with fresh vegetable quinoa, this meal is simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¾ cup diced English cucumbers (seeded)
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Salmon
- 20 oz (4 x 5 oz) salmon fillets (fresh or thawed frozen)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- 8 lemon wedges (for roasting and serving)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water, ½ tsp kosher salt, and the rinsed quinoa to a boil.
- Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is light and fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Quinoa
- Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork.
- Mix in the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and lemon zest.
- Toss gently and set aside.
3. Season the Salmon
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and position a rack in the lower third of the oven.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the surface of each salmon fillet.
4. Broil the Salmon
- Line a sheet pan or glass dish with foil and lightly grease with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared pan and place lemon wedges around them.
- Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the cooked salmon with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve alongside the vegetable quinoa, with roasted lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Notes
- Select Fresh Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon delivers the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check for doneness by gently pressing with a fork; the salmon should flake easily.
- Add Herbs Last: Add fresh basil and parsley just before serving for maximum flavor.
- Customize Vegetables: Swap cucumbers and tomatoes for roasted zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
- Use Pre-Cooked Quinoa: Save time by using pre-cooked quinoa; simply warm it slightly before mixing in the vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Broiling and Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean