Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl

If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients, this Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl is the perfect choice. This vibrant bowl combines tender, lemon-infused salmon with creamy avocado, fluffy quinoa, and a medley of vegetables, all topped with a zesty dressing. It’s a wholesome and filling dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to make in just about 30 minutes!

What makes this bowl so special is the balance of flavors and textures. The citrusy salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado, while the quinoa adds a nutty base that’s light yet satisfying. The fresh vegetables add crunch and color, and the simple dressing ties everything together with a burst of brightness. It’s a nourishing, one-bowl meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

I first made this Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl when I was looking for a healthy, quick meal that was both filling and light. The combination of the flaky salmon, creamy avocado, and fluffy quinoa was an instant hit. It’s now a staple in my recipe rotation for those busy days when I want something that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Why This Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl Will Be Your New Favorite

• Packed with nutrients: This bowl is rich in omega-3s from the salmon, fiber from the quinoa, and healthy fats from the avocado, making it a well-rounded and nourishing meal.
• Citrusy, herby flavor: The salmon is marinated with lemon and herbs, giving it a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado and nutty quinoa.
• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
• Customizable: You can easily swap the salmon for another protein like chicken, tofu, or shrimp, and add your favorite vegetables for added variety.
• Perfect for meal prep: This bowl holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Herb Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Quinoa Bowl:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl

1. Prepare the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside.
2. Marinate the salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the salmon marinate for at least 10 minutes.
3. Cook the salmon: Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the vegetables: While the salmon cooks, prepare the vegetables by slicing the avocado, halving the cherry tomatoes, slicing the cucumber, and thinly slicing the red onion.
5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
6. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls. Top each with slices of avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Place a cooked salmon fillet on top of each bowl.
7. Drizzle with dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the top of the bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
8. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious, fresh, and healthy Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl!

Tips

• Customize your vegetables: Feel free to swap in other vegetables, like bell peppers, spinach, or roasted sweet potatoes, for added flavor and nutrition.
• Grilled salmon option: You can also grill the salmon if you prefer a smoky flavor or want to cook outdoors.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a little heat.
• Meal prep: You can prepare the quinoa, vegetables, and dressing ahead of time for a quick and easy meal later in the week.

Substitutions and Variations

• Other proteins: If you don’t eat salmon, you can substitute with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Grain alternatives: You can replace quinoa with other grains like farro, bulgur, or couscous for a different texture.
• Dairy-free cheese: If you miss the creaminess of cheese, you can add dairy-free feta or goat cheese for an added flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-carb: For a low-carb version, swap the quinoa for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce the carbs while still enjoying a delicious base.
• More veggies: Add extra greens, like spinach or kale, to boost the fiber and vitamin content in the bowl.
• Lower-fat dressing: You can use a lighter dressing made from Greek yogurt (dairy-free options available) or simply use more lemon juice and less olive oil for a lower-fat version.

Closing

And there you have it! This Lemon Herb Salmon and Avocado Quinoa Bowl is the perfect balance of fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s quick to make, full of healthy fats and protein, and ideal for meal prep or a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or as part of a cozy dinner, this bowl is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to let us know how your bowls turn out, and check out more of our healthy and delicious recipes for more inspiration!

Relevant Categories of this Recipe

Healthy Meals
Salmon Recipes
Quinoa Bowls
Dairy-Free Recipes

Tags
Lemon Herb Salmon, Avocado Quinoa Bowl, Healthy Salmon Recipe, Quick Dinner, Dairy-Free Meals, Mediterranean-Inspired Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the quinoa, vegetables, and dressing ahead of time. Just cook the salmon fresh when you’re ready to assemble the bowls.
2. Can I use frozen salmon?
   Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
3. Can I make this without salmon?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the salmon with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a plant-based option.
4. What if I don’t have quinoa?
   If you don’t have quinoa, you can substitute with rice, couscous, or farro for a different texture.
5. Can I use a different type of oil for cooking the salmon?
   Yes, you can use avocado oil or any other high-heat cooking oil if you prefer.
6. Can I add other herbs to the dressing?
   Yes! You can add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to the dressing for extra flavor.
7. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
   The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Can I add a spicy kick to the dressing?
   Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.
9. How long does the dressing keep?
   The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.
10. Can I add other toppings to the bowl?
    Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or even a dollop of hummus for extra texture and flavor.
11. Can I make this a cold salad?
    Yes, you can serve the quinoa and vegetables cold with the salmon for a refreshing salad option.
12. How can I make this bowl spicier?
    You can add jalapeños, chili flakes, or sriracha to the dressing or directly on the bowl for added spice.