Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl

Name: Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 2 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup baby spinach; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

I absolutely adore my Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl! It's become a staple in my kitchen, not just for its vibrant colors but also for its delightful combinations of flavors and textures. The nutty quinoa blends beautifully with the rich, flaky salmon, while fresh veggies add a crisp contrast. I love how I can throw it together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch. Plus, it packs in so much nutrition, ensuring I feel fueled and satisfied after each bite.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-17T13:58:19.211Z

Creating my Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl was an exciting adventure in healthy eating. I remember the first time I combined all the ingredients—the bright quinoa, flaky salmon, and colorful veggies made the dish pop. Plus, I realized that cooking the salmon with just a touch of lemon and dill made it incredibly flavorful while keeping it moist.

This power bowl not only looks fabulous but also provides a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. I often switch up the veggies based on what's in season, and it always tastes fantastic!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor and texture
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings
Quick to prepare, ideal for a busy lifestyle

Perfecting Your Quinoa

Quinoa is a fantastic base for this power bowl, providing protein and fiber. To achieve the perfect texture, it's crucial to rinse the quinoa under cold water before cooking. This removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitterness. After rinsing, the water-to-quinoa ratio should be maintained at 2:1. Once cooked, allow the quinoa to sit for a few minutes covered; this lets it steam and become light and fluffy.

To elevate the flavor of the quinoa further, consider adding a pinch of salt to the cooking water. Alternatively, using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water will infuse the grains with additional flavor. Keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking; if the quinoa starts to stick to the bottom, it may need a little more water. The goal is to finish with the quinoa looking glossy and perfectly separated.

Salmon Preparation Tips

Salmon is a star player in this bowl, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and its preparation can greatly influence the dish's final flavor. For best results, ensure your fillets are at room temperature before cooking; this promotes even cooking. A cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan works beautifully for creating a nice sear. You want the salmon cooked until its internal temperature reaches 145°F, which usually takes about 6–8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.

If you're looking for a variation, try marinating the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic for 20–30 minutes prior to cooking. This will add a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Additionally, if you're short on time, you can substitute the fillets with canned salmon, which you can simply flake over the bowl, maintaining the nutritious element without the cooking time.

Assembly and Storage

The beauty of the Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl lies in the assembly. Start with a base of quinoa and layer on your favorite vegetables; cherry tomatoes and avocado not only contribute vibrant colors but also provide creamy and juicy textures. Don't hesitate to experiment with toppings—adding nuts or seeds can introduce a delightful crunch, while a dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and protein. If you're making it in advance, store the components separately to maintain freshness.

As for leftovers, this dish is easily portable and can be refrigerated for up to three days. Keep the salmon and vegetables separate from the quinoa to prevent it from becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the quinoa in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through, then top with the cold veggies and salmon. This versatility is part of what makes this dish a staple in my kitchen!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious power bowl.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup baby spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Salmon

While the quinoa is cooking, preheat a pan over medium heat. Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Cook the salmon for 6–8 minutes on each side until it flakes easily with a fork.

Assemble the Bowl

In two bowls, divide the cooked quinoa. Top with cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and fresh spinach. Flake the cooked salmon on top, and drizzle with extra lemon juice if desired.

Your delicious and nutritious Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl by adding your favorite veggies or using another protein like grilled chicken or tofu. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or nuts will also provide an extra crunch.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl offers a balanced blend of nutrients essential for a healthy diet. Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly valuable for vegetarians or anyone looking to boost their protein intake. The salmon contributes heart-healthy fats while being a great source of vitamins D and B12.

Adding fresh vegetables like spinach, which is high in iron and antioxidants, along with the healthy fats from the avocado creates a well-rounded meal. Overall, each ingredient plays a crucial role in providing not just flavor, but also meeting your daily nutritional needs.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what's in season or what you have at home. For example, swapping out cherry tomatoes for diced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while roasted bell peppers could introduce a smoky element. Don't hesitate to throw in some chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the assembled bowl. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce or a tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt and lemon can elevate the whole dish, keeping it exciting and new every time you prepare it.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it simple to serve larger gatherings. When increasing the servings, maintain the same 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio to achieve the right consistency. For the salmon, consider using a larger fillet and adjusting cooking time accordingly; thicker pieces may need longer on the grill or in the pan to ensure they are cooked through.

If you're preparing this for a crowd, consider buffet-style serving where guests can assemble their bowls with different toppings. It not only enhances interaction but allows everyone to tailor their dish to their preference, making it a versatile and enjoyable meal for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! You can prepare the quinoa and salmon in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice or couscous as alternatives. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this bowl a great option for gluten-free diets.

→ How can I add more flavor to the bowl?

Consider adding a dressing, like tahini or a vinaigrette, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.