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Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad

Name: Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 fillets of salmon (about 6 ounces each); 1 cup quinoa; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on February 13, 2025

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Have you ever encountered a dish so vibrant and packed with flavor that it instantly transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean? The Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad does just that! This delightful dish bursts with fresh ingredients like tender salmon, fluffy quinoa, and crisp vegetables. Each bite delivers a symphony of colors and tastes that will tantalize your senses.

Imagine enjoying this salad at a summer picnic or serving it as a light dinner after a long day. The aromatic herbs mingle harmoniously with the zesty dressing, creating an unforgettable flavor experience that you’ll crave again and again. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also nutritious, making it perfect for health-conscious foodies. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this exquisite blend of flavors that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich salmon and gluten-free quinoa, this salad provides essential nutrients while keeping calories in check.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time required, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner option; it’s perfect for meal prep or impressing guests at gatherings.

Recipe preparation

Asking For Ingredients?

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Salmon Fillets: Fresh or frozen works well; aim for skinless fillets for easy preparation.

Quinoa: Rinse before cooking to remove bitterness; use either white or red quinoa for added color.

Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; slicing them thinly enhances texture.

Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes; their sweetness complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced for the best flavor balance; soak in water if you want to reduce its sharpness.

For the Dressing:

Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and health benefits.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up all flavors; it’s essential for that Mediterranean touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together!

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Bake the Salmon

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until cooked through and flaky. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.

Cook the Quinoa

While the salmon bakes, rinse the quinoa under cold water. Combine one cup of quinoa with two cups of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed.

Prepare Vegetables

Chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion while waiting for both salmon and quinoa to cook. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Combine Ingredients

Once everything has cooled slightly, flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Add cooked quinoa to the vegetable mixture along with flaked salmon. Pour dressing over everything and toss gently.

Transfer to plates and enjoy your refreshing Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad!

Serving and storing

Tips And Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Do Not Overcook Salmon: Keep an eye on your fish while baking; overcooked salmon can become dry.

Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives based on your preference.

Make It Ahead: Prepare everything except dressing ahead of time; add dressing just before serving to keep things fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors perfectly.

Grilled vegetables can add an extra layer of texture and taste.

Pita bread serves as a great side for scooping up this hearty salad.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Just ensure you thaw it completely before cooking. This allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption. When using frozen salmon fillets, place them in the refrigerator overnight to defrost or use a microwave on a low setting if you’re short on time.

What can I substitute for quinoa in this salad?

If you prefer not to use quinoa in your Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad, consider substituting it with couscous or bulgur wheat. Both options provide a similar texture while enhancing flavor profiles. If you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives, try using brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Is Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad meal prep-friendly?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

You can customize your Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, artichokes, or spinach. Feel free to experiment based on seasonal produce or personal preferences; just ensure that any additional veggies complement the existing flavors well.