If there’s one dinner recipe that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is shockingly simple to make, it’s this Herb-Crusted Salmon with Vibrant Quinoa. Imagine tender, flaky salmon with a crispy, flavorful crust paired with light, fluffy quinoa that’s bursting with color and nutrients. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell divine and looks stunning on the plate.
Growing up, salmon was always a “special occasion” dish in our home. But now, I’ve discovered how quick and easy it is to whip up a healthy, gourmet-style meal like this on a busy weeknight. Trust me—this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try for so many reasons:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3s, protein, and fiber.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant quinoa and golden crusted salmon make this dish a showstopper.
- Customizable: Easily switch up the herbs or add your favorite veggies to the quinoa.
Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Salmon & Vibrant Quinoa
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, your choice!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (I love a mix of parsley, dill, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for a pop of color)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitutions: Don’t have panko? Try crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs. Out of parsley? Swap in fresh cilantro or basil. The quinoa can easily be replaced with couscous or rice if you prefer!
How to Make Herb-Crusted Salmon with Vibrant Quinoa
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, dried herbs, garlic powder, and olive oil until combined.
Step 3: Crust and Bake
Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere. Place the fillets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Step 4: Assemble the Quinoa
In a large bowl, toss the cooked quinoa with bell peppers, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste—it should be fresh and zesty!
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Divide the quinoa onto plates and top each serving with a salmon fillet. Add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra pop of brightness. Enjoy!
Pro Tips & Variations
- For Extra Crispiness: Broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking for an even crunchier crust.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat.
- Seasonal Add-Ins: Mix in roasted veggies, like zucchini or cherry tomatoes, with the quinoa for a heartier dish.
- Meal Prep: Double the quinoa recipe and save the leftovers for lunch bowls the next day!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, don’t worry! Store the salmon and quinoa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the salmon in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy, and microwave the quinoa until heated through.
Serving Idea: Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted asparagus to complete the meal.
Presentation Tips
To make this dish absolutely pin-worthy:
- Use a white or neutral plate to make the vibrant colors pop.
- Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs or lemon slices for a touch of elegance.
- Take photos in natural light and sprinkle some breadcrumbs around the plate for a rustic touch.
Don’t forget to snap a picture before diving in and share it on Pinterest or Instagram! Tag me—I’d love to see your creations. 🌟
FAQ: Your Herb-Crusted Salmon Questions Answered
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding the crust.
What if I don’t like quinoa?
No problem! This salmon pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a bed of sautéed spinach.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Save This Recipe for Later!
Planning your next dinner party or just want to keep this recipe handy? Pin it to your favorite Dinner Ideas or Healthy Meals board on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime. Trust me, this one’s a keeper! 💕