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Juicy Summer Salmon Quinoa Bowl

A cool, satisfying bowl with perfectly cooked salmon, fluffy quinoa, and a bright citrus-herb dressing. No mushy fish or soggy grains here.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt divided
  • 2 6-ounce skinless salmon fillets, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels from 1 ear, or frozen, thawed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 small shallot minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Equipment

  • small saucepan with lid
  • rimmed baking sheet
  • instant-read thermometer
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • vegetable peeler

Method
 

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water for 30 seconds. This removes saponins that cause bitterness.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Spread on a plate to cool slightly.
  3. While quinoa cooks, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush all sides with olive oil and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper.
  4. Place salmon on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach 125°F (52°C) for medium (still slightly translucent in the center) or 130°F (54°C) for medium-well. Do not overcook — salmon dries out fast past 135°F. Let rest for 3 minutes.
  5. While salmon rests, make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced shallot, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, corn, basil, and mint. Add about 2 tablespoons of dressing and toss gently.
  7. To assemble bowls: Divide quinoa between two shallow bowls. Top with vegetable mixture. Flake the salmon into large chunks and place on top. Drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Keep components separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reassemble just before serving. The dressing will keep for up to 1 week. Tip: If you prefer a warm bowl, skip cooling the quinoa and serve everything at room temperature.