Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is the kind of recipe you’ll want in your back pocket for everything from busy weeknights to sunny weekend gatherings. This dish captures the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean cuisine Main Course. It’s a wholesome combination that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is satisfying, bursting with color, lean protein, and fresh flavors that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you serve it warm out of the grill or chilled for lunch, Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is an instant classic you’ll love making again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about putting together Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is how each simple ingredient brings something essential to the table. From the rich, buttery salmon to the zesty lemon and cooling crunch of cucumber, these components work together for a lively, balanced dish.
- Salmon fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Use the freshest, skin-on salmon you can find for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon for salmon, 2 tablespoons for salad): This Mediterranean staple adds richness and helps marry all the flavors together.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon for salmon, 2 tablespoons for salad): Fresh lemon brings zing and brightness, perfectly complementing both the salmon and the quinoa salad.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A sprinkle infuses the salmon with savory aroma without overpowering the delicate fish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t skimp—these are essential for enhancing every ingredient in the dish.
- Quinoa (1 cup uncooked, rinsed): This protein-packed, gluten-free grain serves as the hearty foundation of the salad.
- Water or vegetable broth (2 cups): Cooking quinoa in broth takes its flavor to the next level; water works beautifully, too.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): They add juicy sweetness and pops of color to the salad.
- Cucumber (1, diced): Crisp and refreshing, cucumber brings coolness to offset the warm salmon.
- Red onion (¼ cup, finely chopped): A little goes a long way for aromatic sharpness and gentle bite.
- Fresh parsley or mint (¼ cup, chopped): These herbs infuse the salad with vibrant, garden-fresh flavor—use your favorite or a mixture of both.
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Start by mixing olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create a quick marinade. Brush this fragrant mixture all over the salmon fillets, making sure each piece is well coated. Even just a few minutes of marinating will infuse the salmon with flavor and help keep it tender as it grills.
Step 2: Grill the Salmon
Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the salmon skin-side down directly onto the grates and close the lid. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes, then gently flip each fillet and grill another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The smoky char slightly caramelizes the marinade for mouthwatering results.
Step 3: Cook the Quinoa
While the salmon cooks, add rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool for a few minutes so it stays nice and fluffy when you add the vegetables.
Step 4: Assemble the Quinoa Salad
In a large bowl, combine the warm (not hot) quinoa with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and a generous handful of parsley or mint. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season well with salt and black pepper. Toss everything together so that each bite is bright and herbaceous.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To bring it all together, serve each grilled salmon fillet over a generous scoop of quinoa salad, or plate them side by side. The contrast between the juicy salmon and the crisp, citrusy salad is unbeatable. Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is a culinary celebration in every bite.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad
Garnishes
Give your platter a gorgeous finish with a few thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of extra chopped herbs, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or a scattering of crumbled feta can take Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad to the next level, adding color, aroma, and a burst of flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but if you’re serving a crowd or want to round out the meal, try pairing it with a platter of grilled asparagus, a crisp Greek salad, or fluffy pita bread. Light, simple sides let the flavors of the Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad remain the star.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching display, serve the salad layered in a large bowl and rest the grilled salmon fillets on top, garnished with extra herbs and lemon slices. Or, for picnics and meal prep, try packing individual portions in jars or containers—Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad travels beautifully and is delicious hot or cold.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad holds up especially well, staying fresh and vibrant for up to three days, and the salmon retains its flavor.
Freezing
While the quinoa salad is best eaten fresh, you can freeze grilled salmon fillets for up to a month. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the salmon gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at half-power until just heated through, being careful not to overcook. The quinoa salad is delicious chilled, but you can also quickly warm it in the microwave or serve it at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use skinless salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless fillets, but grilling with the skin helps keep the salmon moist and makes flipping easier. If using skinless, just be a little more gentle when grilling to prevent sticking.
What other grains can I use instead of quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa on hand, try couscous, bulgur, or even brown rice for a different texture. However, quinoa keeps Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad gluten-free and gives it that signature nutty bite.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! The main recipe is completely dairy-free. If you want garnishes like feta, simply leave them off or use a dairy-free alternative to keep everything lactose-free.
How can I add more protein or texture?
Feel free to add crumbled feta, a handful of chickpeas, or some diced avocado to the salad for extra protein and creaminess. Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is super flexible to your tastes or dietary needs.
Can I prepare Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad in advance?
Yes! The quinoa salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, and the grilled salmon is delicious cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal that feels both nourishing and a little bit special, Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad is just the thing. This is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat, savoring every bright, hearty bite. Give it a try soon—you might just find a new favorite!
