Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Name: Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced and zested; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup radishes, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I love a meal that is both satisfying and refreshing, and this Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl hits the mark perfectly! With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it's become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender salmon, fluffy quinoa, and zesty lime makes for a bowl that's not only delicious but also loaded with health benefits. Trust me, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful bowl.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:49:28.035Z

In my quest for healthy yet flavorful meals, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of ingredients that make my taste buds sing! The cilantro and lime really brighten up the dish, enhancing the fresh ingredients. I found that marinating the salmon in lime juice adds not only flavor but also keeps it moist and tender during cooking.

Cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth adds another layer of savory goodness that pairs beautifully with the salmon. I also recommend adding some avocado for creaminess and a sprinkle of radishes for crunch, giving this bowl an extra pop of color and flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lime and fresh cilantro brighten the flavors
Nutritious quinoa complements the tender salmon
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Mastering Quinoa Cooking

Cooking quinoa is all about achieving that perfect fluffy texture. When using vegetable broth, the flavors infuse better, offering a more savory base for your bowl. Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking; this removes the natural saponins that can give it a bitter taste. Once you add the quinoa to the boiling broth, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as mushy quinoa can detract from the bowl's overall impact.

After fluffing the quinoa, consider mixing in a bit of the chopped cilantro for added freshness and color. This step not only brightens the flavor but also ensures that every bite of quinoa is complemented by the lime and herbaceous notes characteristic of this bowl.

Perfectly Cooked Salmon

For the salmon, patience is key. Cooking it over medium heat allows the salmon to sear beautifully without overcooking the outer layer. Look for that golden-brown crust before flipping; this indicates a delicious caramelization. If you prefer, you can substitute salmon with another fatty fish like trout or even chicken breast—both will work well with the lime marinade.

To test for doneness, gently press the fillet with a fork; if it flakes easily, it's ready to enjoy. Remember, undercooked salmon stays moist and tender, so err on the side of slightly less cooking time if you're unsure.

Customizing Your Bowl

Feel free to get creative with toppings. While avocado, cherry tomatoes, and radishes are delicious, you can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Grilled asparagus or sautéed bell peppers add a lovely dimension without altering the core flavors. If you're looking to enhance the crunch factor, consider adding toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts.

This bowl is incredibly versatile and perfect for meal prep. You can cook extra quinoa and salmon, storing them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent browning.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious bowl:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced and zested
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup radishes, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Prepare the Salmon

While the quinoa is cooking, marinate the salmon fillets with lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper for about 10 minutes. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, place a generous portion of quinoa. Top with the cooked salmon, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.

Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top or a dash of chili flakes for some heat. This bowl is also easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins!

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place the quinoa and salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. The quinoa will stay good for up to five days, while the salmon is best consumed within three days to maintain its freshness. If you want to freeze the cooked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can last in the freezer for up to two months.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the quinoa in the microwave using a splash of vegetable broth for added moisture. The salmon can be gently reheated in the oven at a low temperature to keep it tender, avoiding the microwave, which can dry it out.

Flavor Variations

If you love spicy food, try adding chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha over the assembled bowl. The heat from the jalapeños can bring out the zesty lime flavors, making each bite more exciting. Conversely, if you prefer a milder taste, omit the radishes and replace them with cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.

For a more Mediterranean twist, consider adding feta cheese or olives to your bowl. The briny flavors from these ingredients will complement the salmon beautifully and provide a different taste profile without overpowering the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! Any firm white fish like trout or halibut would work well in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ Can I prep this bowl in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the quinoa and salmon ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the bowl when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or any grain of your choice that you enjoy.