Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe

Welcome to a culinary adventure that combines the bright flavors of lemon, the earthy aroma of herbs, and the smoky goodness of grilled salmon in our delightful recipe for Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa. This vibrant dish brings together juicy salmon fillets marinated in a zesty lemon herb concoction, fluffy quinoa, and fresh baby spinach, creating a meal that is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a wholesome yet hassle-free dinner or for a leisurely weekend lunch that feels special, this Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. I first crafted this dish as a quick summer dinner option, and it quickly became a family favorite. The fresh burst of lemon against the perfectly grilled salmon is a flavor combination that never fails to impress, making it a go-to choice whenever we desire something light and flavorful.

Whether you’re enjoying this dish warm right off the grill or savoring it chilled the next day, the Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you satisfied and wanting more. Feel free to experiment with different greens, grains, or even protein options to make this recipe your own. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in a wholesome and delicious meal that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Quick Benefits

• Vibrant and Nourishing: Packed with bright flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish offers a vibrant and nourishing meal option.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily customizable with different proteins like arctic char, trout, or chicken, and grains like farro or wild rice, allowing for a variety of flavor profiles.
• Easy Prep and Storage: Leftovers keep well, and both the salmon and quinoa-spinach base can be prepared ahead and stored separately for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
• Classic Mediterranean Flavors: Echoing Mediterranean cuisine, this dish combines olive oil, citrus, herbs, and fresh greens for a classic, nutritionally rich flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors: This recipe combines zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and perfectly grilled salmon for a burst of bright and refreshing flavors.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with heart-healthy salmon, fluffy quinoa, and nutrient-rich spinach, this dish offers a nourishing meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch, this recipe is simple to make and perfect for when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by swapping ingredients like the type of fish, grains, or greens used, making it adaptable to what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Make-ahead Option: Both the salmon and quinoa-spinach base can be prepared ahead of time and stored, allowing for quick and convenient meals during the week.
• Mediterranean Flair: Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this dish offers a taste of the sunwashed flavors of the region, bringing together olive oil, citrus, fresh herbs, and greens in a harmonious blend.

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe

Fish

• 2 salmon fillets, approximately 170 grams each

Grains and Greens

• 240 millilitres cooked quinoa
• 60 grams fresh baby spinach

Dressing

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt, to taste
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

Pro Tips for Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe

For a perfectly grilled salmon, ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated before cooking. This step is key to achieving those delicious charred edges and smoky flavor. Remember, grilling the salmon for around 3-4 minutes per side usually results in a perfectly cooked, flaky fish.

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite greens. Arugula, kale, or mixed greens can all be excellent substitutes for the baby spinach, offering a variety of flavors and textures to suit your preferences.

To save time during busy weeknights, prep components of this dish ahead of time. Both the salmon and quinoa-spinach base can be made in advance and stored separately in airtight containers, making it easy to assemble a quick, healthy meal whenever you’re ready to eat.

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Prepare Lemon Herb Mixture

Mix together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Step 3: Marinate Salmon

Coat salmon fillets evenly with half of the lemon herb mixture using a brush.

Step 4: Grill Salmon

Grill salmon for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until cooked through and lightly charred.

Step 5: Dress Quinoa and Spinach

Combine cooked quinoa and fresh spinach with the remaining lemon herb dressing, ensuring they are well mixed.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Divide the quinoa and spinach mixture onto plates, top with grilled salmon, and serve with additional lemon, if desired.

Storage Tips

After preparing this Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa and Spinach dish, you can store any leftovers for up to two days in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the cooked salmon and quinoa-spinach mix separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, you have the option to eat them chilled or gently reheat them for a quick and delicious meal.

If you decide to freeze any leftover salmon, ensure to wrap the fillets tightly without the greens. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen salmon, thaw it gently before reheating or serving. This dish is versatile and customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients like the type of fish or grains used. Additionally, you can add fresh herbs instead of dried ones for added brightness and experiment with various toppings or accompaniments like Greek yogurt, tahini sauce, pine nuts, or different salad greens for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have salmon on hand, you can substitute it with arctic char, trout, or skin-on chicken breast for a different protein option. For the quinoa, wild rice, farro, or barley can be used instead to add variety to the dish. Feel free to use fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil in place of dried herbs for an even brighter flavor profile.

To add different textures and flavors, consider swapping the baby spinach with arugula, kale, or mixed greens. These greens can provide a unique twist to the dish while still offering a nutritious base. Additionally, you can experiment with adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, or toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Be creative with your ingredient substitutions to tailor the dish to your preferences and what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try assembling these Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa bowls with a colorful array of toppings like sliced avocado, pickled red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory elements will elevate the dish and add a burst of flavors and textures to every bite.

Another fun idea is to turn this recipe into a vibrant and nourishing salad by tossing the grilled salmon, quinoa, and spinach together with a lemon herb vinaigrette. Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens, garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next summer gathering.

FAQs for Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Quinoa Recipe

Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can try this recipe with arctic char, trout, or even skin-on chicken breast for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Both the grilled salmon and the quinoa-spinach base can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick, healthy meals later on.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Grilling for about 3-4 minutes per side is usually sufficient.

Why is preheating the grill important for this recipe?

Preheating the grill or grill pan is essential as it helps impart a smoky flavor to the salmon and develops crisp, lightly charred edges on the fillets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of simplicity and versatility in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out on your culinary journey, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let the aromas of fresh herbs and zesty lemon fill your kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant and nutritious meal that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Cheers to good food, good company, and good health, all in one delicious plate of Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Quinoa!