This Pesto Salmon on Quinoa is a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender, flaky salmon is coated in a rich, herby pesto and served over fluffy quinoa, creating a nutrient-packed meal that’s delicious and satisfying.
🐟🌿 Dietary Notes: High-protein, gluten-free, and rich in omega-3s.
Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ⏱️ Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- 🐟 Nutrient-packed: Salmon for omega-3s, quinoa for fiber and protein.
- 🌿 Flavorful and fresh: Pesto adds a delicious herby twist.
- 🍽️ Great for meal prep: Makes tasty leftovers!
Pesto Salmon on Quinoa
A high-protein meal featuring pesto-coated salmon served over fluffy quinoa.
Equipment
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Small food processor (if making pesto from scratch)
- Fork for flaking salmon
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 🐟 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each, skinless or skin-on
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🍋 Juice of 1 lemon
- 🫒 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pesto: (or use 1/2 cup store-bought)
- 🌿 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic
- 🥜 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 🧀 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for vegan
- 🫒 1/4 cup olive oil
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa:
- 🍚 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 💧 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 🧂 Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water (or broth), and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.
Make the Pesto: (Skip if using store-bought)
- In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan (or nutritional yeast), and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed for desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Salmon:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto over each fillet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Assemble the Dish:
- Divide the cooked quinoa into serving bowls.
- Place a salmon fillet on top of each quinoa portion.
- Drizzle with extra pesto if desired.
Serve and Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of pine nuts if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- 🌿 Quinoa Alternative: Swap quinoa with brown rice, farro, or couscous.
- 🐟 Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in airtight containers.
- 🌶️ Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy twist.
- 🍋 Extra Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully.
This Pesto Salmon on Quinoa is a light yet satisfying dish that combines bold flavors with nutritious ingredients.
Try it out today and let us know how it turned out! 🐟🌿🍋💚
