Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe
Lemon herb salmon with quinoa is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s packed with protein and essential nutrients. The salmon is seasoned with a zesty lemon herb marinade, then baked until perfectly tender and flaky. Paired with a side of fluffy quinoa, this dish makes for a light yet satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Expect tender, flavorful salmon with a bright, citrusy punch from the lemon and a fragrant herbal note. The quinoa serves as the perfect base, soaking up any extra flavors from the salmon while adding a light, nutty texture that complements the dish beautifully.
This recipe is simple, quick, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while quinoa offers a gluten-free, high-protein base. It’s an easy, elegant meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch.
Tools to Use
- Baking sheet
- Small bowl for marinade
- Spoon or brush for applying marinade
- Pot for cooking quinoa
- Fork for fluffing quinoa
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. - Prepare the Salmon Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and black pepper. - Marinate the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and spoon the marinade over the top of each fillet. Let the salmon marinate for at least 10-15 minutes. - Cook the Quinoa
While the salmon marinates, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the quinoa, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside. - Bake the Salmon
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork. - Serve
Divide the quinoa between serving plates and top with a salmon fillet. Garnish with extra lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small bowl for marinade
- Spoon or brush for applying marinade
- Pot for cooking quinoa
- Fork for fluffing quinoa
Ingredients
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Salmon Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and spoon the marinade over the top of each fillet. Let the salmon marinate for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the Quinoa
- While the salmon marinates, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the quinoa, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.
- Bake the Salmon
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.
- Serve
- Divide the quinoa between serving plates and top with a salmon fillet. Garnish with extra lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Cooking
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
- If you prefer crispy salmon skin, bake the fillets skin-side down and finish under the broiler for a few minutes.
- You can add vegetables like roasted asparagus or spinach to complement the dish.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the quinoa for added flavor.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Lemon herb salmon with quinoa is a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious, protein-packed dinner. The zesty salmon pairs beautifully with the nutty quinoa, creating a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying yet healthy. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
This lemon herb salmon with quinoa is a deliciously healthy meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a nutritious dinner that’s simple to make and full of vibrant taste. Try it tonight for a fresh, satisfying meal!
