Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and makes you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special, this Spiced Salmon Bowl is exactly what you need. It’s got everything you want: tender, perfectly seasoned salmon, a fluffy quinoa base, and a crisp, refreshing cucumber-dill salad that adds the perfect zing. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or craving a light but filling dinner, this bowl will not disappoint. Trust me, this is the kind of meal that will make you feel good while enjoying every bite.

Why You’ll Love Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad

Fresh and Flavorful

The salmon is beautifully spiced with a mix of herbs and spices that bring it to life. When paired with the bright cucumber-dill salad and the nutty quinoa, it’s a match made in heaven. Every bite is a balance of savory, zesty, and refreshing flavors.

Nutritious and Satisfying

Packed with protein from the salmon and quinoa, and loaded with fresh veggies, this bowl is as nutritious as it is tasty. You’ll feel satisfied without being weighed down, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.

Versatile

You can easily switch up the veggies or even the grain if you want. Swap quinoa for brown rice or couscous, or throw in some avocado for extra creaminess. It’s a customizable recipe to suit your preferences!

Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad, here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon Fillets

The star of the dish! Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are perfect for grilling or pan-searing. They soak up all the spices and stay juicy on the inside.

Quinoa

This light and nutty grain is the perfect base for your bowl. It’s packed with protein and makes a great substitute for rice or couscous.

Cucumber

Crisp and refreshing, cucumber adds a cool, hydrating crunch to the salad, balancing out the richness of the salmon.

Fresh Dill

A handful of fresh dill gives the cucumber salad that classic, herby punch. It’s bright and refreshing, tying everything together.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced red onion adds a little bite to the salad, and its mild sweetness pairs beautifully with the dill and cucumber.

Lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a citrusy brightness to both the salmon and the cucumber-dill salad. It really elevates the dish.

Olive Oil

You’ll use this to sear your salmon and dress the quinoa. It adds richness and helps to cook the salmon to crispy, golden perfection.

Spices

A blend of paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper gives the salmon a wonderful kick. Adjust the cayenne if you prefer it milder.

Salt and Pepper

For seasoning, salt and pepper are key to bringing out all the natural flavors in the salmon, quinoa, and salad.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make this bright and satisfying Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by cooking the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, bring water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor) to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber-Dill Salad

While the quinoa cooks, prep the cucumber-dill salad. Slice the cucumber and red onion thinly and place them in a bowl. Add fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice, then drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a toss to combine.

Step 3: Spice the Salmon

While the salad is coming together, season the salmon fillets. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is golden brown on the outside and just cooked through on the inside. If you prefer your salmon to be a little more well-done, feel free to cook it a bit longer.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

To assemble, start by placing a scoop of quinoa in each bowl. Top with a salmon fillet, then add a generous portion of cucumber-dill salad on the side. Squeeze a bit more lemon juice over the top for that extra burst of freshness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your spiced salmon bowls immediately and enjoy the delicious balance of flavors and textures!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 260mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad

This bowl is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking for ways to enhance your meal, here are a few ideas:

Add Avocado

For extra creaminess, add sliced avocado on top of the quinoa or alongside the salmon. The richness of the avocado pairs wonderfully with the spiced salmon.

Pair with a Green Salad

A simple side salad of mixed greens, baby spinach, or arugula dressed with a light vinaigrette would balance the richness of the salmon bowl perfectly.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts would make an excellent side dish to complement the flavors of the salmon and quinoa.

Garnish with Extra Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley or mint would add an extra layer of freshness and color to your dish. They’ll brighten up the flavor profile even more!

Additional Tips

Make it Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just double-check the quinoa packaging to ensure it’s certified gluten-free.

Prep Ahead

You can cook the quinoa and prepare the cucumber-dill salad a day ahead to make this a quick, weeknight-friendly meal. Store the salad in the fridge for up to 24 hours for maximum freshness.

Adjust the Spice Level

If you’re not into spicy foods, feel free to skip the cayenne pepper or use just a pinch. The dish will still be packed with flavor thanks to the paprika, cumin, and garlic.

Switch Up the Grains

If quinoa isn’t your thing, try swapping it with brown rice, farro, or couscous for a different base.

Cooking the Salmon in the Oven

If you’d prefer, you can cook the salmon in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the spiced salmon fillets on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the salmon with roasted or pan-seared tofu or tempeh for a delicious plant-based option.

Q3: Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
A3: Yes, feel free to swap quinoa for rice, couscous, or farro. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the grain you choose.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the salmon in the oven at 350°F to maintain its texture.

Q5: Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
A5: Yes! You can easily add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado to the cucumber-dill salad for extra color and crunch.

Q6: Can I use a different herb for the salad?
A6: Yes, dill can be swapped for fresh parsley, mint, or even cilantro if you prefer a different flavor.

Q7: Can I make the salad ahead of time?
A7: Yes, the cucumber-dill salad can be prepared a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge, and it’ll be fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Q8: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A8: If you want more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chili flakes to the spice mix. You can also drizzle a little hot sauce on top.

Q9: Can I use chicken instead of salmon?
A9: Yes! Chicken breast or thighs would be a great alternative. Season and cook the chicken the same way, just be sure it’s fully cooked through.

Q10: How can I make this dish lower in calories?
A10: You can reduce the amount of oil used in cooking and use a smaller portion of quinoa. You can also skip the avocado or use a lighter version of the dressing for the salad.

Conclusion

This Spiced Salmon Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber-Dill Salad is everything you want in a healthy, satisfying meal. It’s fresh, flavorful, and so easy to make! With perfectly spiced salmon, a light and crunchy cucumber salad, and a nutty quinoa base, this dish will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So grab your ingredients and get ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness!

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