This Salmon Quinoa Salad is fresh, filling, and full of flavor—roasted salmon, crunchy veggies, and fluffy quinoa all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
2cupschicken broth or waterfor more flavor, use broth
For The Salmon
1tablespoonolive oil
1teaspoonpaprika
1teaspoonItalian seasoning
Salt and pepperto taste
½lemonjuiced
1.5lbsalmon filletor three 5 oz pieces
For The Salad
1red bell pepperchopped
1cucumberchopped
½red onionfinely chopped
10ozcherry tomatoeshalved
Handful of fresh parsleychopped
Handful of fresh dillchopped
For The Dressing:
¼cupbalsamic vinegar
¼cupolive oil
Salt and pepperto taste
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Roast for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Let cool slightly, then flake into large chunks.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until fully emulsified.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss until evenly coated. Gently fold in the flaked salmon last to keep the pieces intact.
Video
Notes
Tips:
If using skin on salmon, roast skin-side down
Cool your quinoa before adding to the vegetables
Don't oversalt the salad. Wait until the end and season to taste.
Storage: Keep dressing on the side if storing longer than a day or two. It’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days.