Quinoa Bowl with Baked Salmon and Green Beans

This Quinoa Bowl with Baked Salmon and Green Beans is perfect for any occasion, and sure will become a staple in your recipe collection. I’ve heard from some friends that they haven’t quite warmed up to the taste of quinoa. Well, I’m here to change that perception with a fantastic recipe! This Quinoa Bowl with Baked Salmon and Green Beans is not only a nutritional powerhouse but also a game-changer for those who may be on the fence about quinoa.

So, to my friends who haven’t quite embraced quinoa yet, I invite you to give it another try with this incredible recipe. Trust me, this dish might just make quinoa a welcomed and regular addition to your diet.

Ingredients for Quinoa Bowl

1 cup dry quinoa

1 medium grated carrot

1 small leek

2 Tbsp avocado oil

1 nori sheet

2 cups of vegetable broth

4 fillets of Salmon (500 g)

½ tsp Garlic powder (marinade)

½ Tbsp Maple syrup (marinade)

½ Tbsp Dijon mustard (marinade)

1 pound (450 g) Green beans or green peas

1 tsp Soy sauce

1 tsp Sesame oil

1 small garlic pressed

Salt & pepper to taste

Fresh coriander to serve

Cooking Instruction for Quinoa

• Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bitter outer coating. Drain well.
• In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leek & shredded carrot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and slightly translucent.
• Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan with the sautéed leek & carrot. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes to lightly toast the quinoa.
• Add 2 cups of vegetable broth to the quinoa. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the and is tender. Keep the lid on while simmering.
• Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Then, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
• Add nori (cut with kitchen scissors into small pieces). The residual heat from the quinoa will help soften the nori slightly.
• Taste the quinoa and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
• Boil green beans according to the package instructions, and mix with pressed garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Quinoa: The Golden Seed of Nutrition and Flavor

Perfectly Baked Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400° F (200° C). In a small bowl, create a marinade by combining ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ tablespoon of maple syrup, and ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard.

Coat each of the 4 salmon fillets with the marinade, ensuring they are well-covered.

Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 until the salmon is cooked to perfection.

More Recipes with Quinoa & Salmon

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Fresh and Flavorful: Broccoli Rice Bowl with Salmon

Bowl of Goodness: Baked Salmon with Broccoli & Shiitake

Tips to Make Your Quinoa Bowl Even Better

• Sprinkle the dish with fresh coriander for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
• Add an extra drizzle of soy sauce or sesame oil for additional richness.
• Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice over the entire bowl just before serving.
• Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch to each bite. Sprinkle them generously over the top of the dish for both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.
• Add a satisfying crunch by sprinkling crushed almonds or cashews over the top.
• For a creamy and luxurious element, add slices of ripe avocado to the bowl. The buttery texture of avocado pairs wonderfully with the salmon and quinoa.
• Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The herbal notes will add a layer of freshness ⇓⇓⇓

The Art of Pairing Fresh Herbs with Dishes

Serving Suggestions

1. Light Side Salad: Serve a crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon and quinoa.
2. Fresh Fruit Salsa: Prepare a vibrant fruit salsa with diced mango, pineapple, red onion, and cilantro. Spoon it over the salmon for a burst of tropical flavors.
3. Crusty Bread or Rolls: Include a basket of crusty bread or rolls on the side. The bread can be used to soak up any delicious sauces and provides a satisfying accompaniment.
4. Lemon Herb Yogurt Sauce: Whip up a quick yogurt-based sauce with lemon zest, chopped herbs (such as dill or parsley), and a pinch of salt. Serve it on the side for a tangy and creamy element.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roast sweet potato wedges with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a sweet and smoky side dish that harmonizes with the quinoa bowl.
6. Cauliflower Rice Alternative: For a low-carb option, serve the quinoa bowl over cauliflower rice ⇓⇓⇓

Cauliflower Rice: Your Complete Guide to a Nutrient-Packed Side

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Health Benefits of Quinoa Bowl

Your Quinoa Bowl with Baked Salmon and Green Beans is not just a flavorful and satisfying meal; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Here are some key health benefits associated with the main ingredients:

1. Quinoa:
   • Complete Protein Source: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent plant-based protein source, crucial for muscle repair and overall cellular function.
   • Rich in Fiber: High fiber content supports digestive health, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
2. Salmon:
   • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. These fats have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and may contribute to improved cognitive function.
   • High-Quality Protein: Salmon provides high-quality protein, supporting muscle development, immune function, and overall body repair.
3. Green Beans:
   • Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: Green beans are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
   • Antioxidant Content: The presence of antioxidants in green beans may help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
4. Nori Sheet:
   • Rich in Iodine: Nori is a good source of iodine, a mineral essential for thyroid function and overall metabolic health.
   • Mineral Content: Nori provides various minerals, including iron, magnesium, and calcium, contributing to bone health and energy production.