If you’re searching for a meal that feels like sunshine on a plate, this Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines perfectly grilled salmon fillets with a vibrant, fresh quinoa salad that bursts with colors and flavors. This dish is light yet satisfying, boasting a beautiful balance of smoky, tangy, and herbaceous notes that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a laid-back weekend lunch with friends, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a healthy, delicious powerhouse meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays an essential role in making this dish a spectacular success. The fresh salmon delivers heart-healthy omega-3s and a tender texture, while the quinoa salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast filled with vibrant veggies and herby brightness.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best grilling experience and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the salmon juicy and adds a rich, fruity undertone.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings lively acidity that enhances the salmon’s natural taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal touch and a nice pop of color.
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed: Nutty and fluffy, quinoa forms the perfect base for the salad.
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth: Cooking the quinoa in broth adds extra flavor layers.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 1/2 cucumber, diced: Brings cool crunch that balances the warm salmon perfectly.
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped: Gives a mild bite and beautiful purple hue.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Infuses the salad with bright, fresh herbal notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps bind the salad while adding smooth richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds zesty brightness that ties the salad flavors together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning to sharpen and enhance every ingredient.
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This step washes away any bitterness and ensures a delightful nutty flavor. Next, cook the quinoa in 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to infuse extra taste. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until fluffy, about 15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before mixing with the fresh vegetable ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Quinoa Salad
While the quinoa cooks, halve your cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and chop the parsley. Once the quinoa is cooled to warm, toss it with the veggies, parsley, a tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad is bursting with freshness, perfect as a lively bed for your salmon.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry and in a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this marinade over each fillet generously, making sure every nook is covered. Let them sit while your grill heats; this brief marinating adds a lovely citrus-garlic flavor to the fish.
Step 4: Grill the Salmon
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You’ll know it’s perfectly done when the fish flakes easily with a fork but still remains tender and juicy. The grill marks and slight char will add incredible texture and smoky flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Plate
Place a generous scoop of quinoa salad onto each plate, then top it with a beautifully grilled salmon fillet. Be sure to save some lemon wedges to squeeze over the dish just before serving, enhancing the freshness and brightness of every bite.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley are fantastic garnishes that add a burst of color and an aromatic lift. A final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or an additional wedge of lemon can make the dish look and taste even more special. These little touches turn a simple meal into an elegant presentation.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your meal, light steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans complement the salmon beautifully. A simple mixed greens salad or a crusty whole-grain bread can also be wonderful accompaniments that keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the grilled salmon on a bed of avocado slices layered on top of the quinoa salad for a creamy twist. You can also use individual small bowls for a more casual, deconstructed presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or a relaxed family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover salmon and quinoa salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them apart prevents the salmon from getting soggy, preserving each component’s texture and flavor.
Freezing
While quinoa salad freezes well, grilled salmon is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze salmon, do so before cooking to maintain the best taste and texture. Avoid freezing the salad since fresh veggies may lose their crispness.
Reheating
Reheat grilled salmon gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying it out—covering it lightly helps retain moisture. Serve it right away with a fresh scoop of quinoa salad to keep the dish tasting as fresh as possible.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon’s rich flavor pairs beautifully with quinoa salad, feel free to substitute with trout, sea bass, or even firm white fish like cod. Just adjust grilling times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this grilled salmon with quinoa salad recipe perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a wholesome, gluten-free meal.
How do I prevent quinoa from being mushy?
Rinsing quinoa thoroughly before cooking helps remove residue that can cause bitterness and mushiness. Also, avoid stirring too much during cooking and use precise water ratios for fluffy quinoa every time.
Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
If you want to go plant-based, simply omit the salmon and add grilled tofu or tempeh for protein. The quinoa salad is delicious on its own or as a bed for many vegan-friendly toppings.
What’s the best way to tell when salmon is perfectly cooked?
Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside. It will turn from translucent to an opaque pink color. Avoid overcooking to maintain that tender, melt-in-the-mouth quality.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad Recipe is like giving yourself a delicious gift that’s both nourishing and satisfying. It’s wonderfully versatile, quick to prepare, and full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Once you make it, you’ll want to share it again and again with everyone you know. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels fresh, healthy, and utterly irresistible.
Print
Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is a light, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned and grilled to perfection, served alongside a refreshing quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables and bright herbs. The lemon and olive oil dressing enhances every bite with a zesty finish, making this dish both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Quinoa Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Season the Salmon: While the quinoa cooks, pat dry the salmon fillets. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Grill the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let it rest briefly.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the fluffed quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Plate the grilled salmon fillets alongside a generous portion of quinoa salad. Garnish the salmon with fresh dill or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh herbs like cilantro or basil in the salad for a different flavor profile.
- For an added crunch, consider topping the quinoa salad with toasted nuts or seeds.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the salmon on a grill pan or bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes.
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- Using vegetable broth instead of water to cook quinoa adds extra flavor.
