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Mediterranean Quinoa Salmon Bowl

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 (6-ounce) center-cut salmon fillets, skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup English cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, 2 cups of water or broth, and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  • While quinoa cooks, prepare the vegetables and dressing. Chop the cucumber, halve tomatoes and olives, and slice the onion. In a jar with a lid, combine all vinaigrette ingredients and shake vigorously until emulsified.
  • Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season all sides with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano.
  • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for 15 seconds. Cook for 4-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and releases easily.
  • Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-4 minutes for medium-rare (130-135°F). Remove from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.
  • To assemble, divide the quinoa among four bowls. Top with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and red onion. Place a salmon fillet in each bowl. Drizzle generously with the vinaigrette and serve.

Notes

Ensure your salmon is fully patted dry with paper towels before seasoning to get the best, crispiest skin.
Keyword salmon bowl, seafood