Best Baked Salmon and Quinoa Dish

This Baked Salmon and Quinoa Dish is a healthy, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Flaky, tender salmon is baked to perfection and served alongside fluffy, herbed quinoa with fresh veggies for a light and satisfying dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a wholesome one-pan wonder that’s full of Omega-3s, fiber, and fresh flavor. The salmon bakes beautifully in the oven while the quinoa cooks on the stovetop, and it all comes together with lemon, herbs, and olive oil for a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired finish. It’s gluten-free, customizable, and meal-prep friendly.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon:

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional garnish)

For the Quinoa:

• Quinoa
• Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Cucumber (chopped)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh parsley or mint
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

directions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa and add it to a saucepan with broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place salmon fillets in the mixture and let sit for 15–20 minutes while the oven preheats to 400°F (200°C).
3. Bake the Salmon: Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the Quinoa Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. Serve: Plate quinoa salad and top with a salmon fillet. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use wild rice or couscous instead of quinoa.
• Add avocado, olives, or feta cheese for more Mediterranean flavor.
• Swap dill for cilantro and add cumin and lime for a Southwestern twist.
• Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or sriracha in the marinade.
• Grill the salmon instead of baking it for a smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store salmon and quinoa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat salmon gently in the oven or microwave. The quinoa salad can be served cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating and baking.

Is quinoa better than rice for this recipe?

Quinoa adds more protein and fiber, but rice can be substituted if preferred.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook the quinoa and salmon ahead, then assemble before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used, but fresh gives the best flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temp should be 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy- and gluten-free as written.

What can I serve with this?

A side salad, roasted veggies, or pita bread pair well.

Can I use salmon with skin?

Yes, bake skin-side down and remove before serving if desired.

How can I make the quinoa more flavorful?

Cooking in broth instead of water adds depth, and tossing with lemon and herbs boosts freshness.

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely—add crushed red pepper or a spicy marinade to the salmon.

Conclusion

This Baked Salmon and Quinoa Dish is the perfect healthy dinner: fresh, fast, and full of flavor. With a balance of protein, whole grains, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a go-to recipe for nourishing meals any day of the week. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always satisfying.

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