100% Gluten-Free

Lemon Herb Salmon with Fluffy Quinoa

A fresh, nutrient-dense weeknight dinner packed with Omega-3s and high-quality protein.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Servings 2 servings

Difficulty Easy

Looking for a light, wholesome, and completely gluten-free dinner that doesn't compromise on flavor? This Lemon Herb Salmon paired with herb-infused quinoa comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Herb-Infused Quinoa:

• ✓ 1 cup white or tri-color quinoa, thoroughly rinsed
• ✓ 2 cups gluten-free vegetable or chicken broth
• ✓ 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• ✓ 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• ✓ 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the Lemon Herb Salmon:

• ✓ 2 skin-on salmon fillets (approx. 6 oz each)
• ✓ 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• ✓ 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ✓ 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
• ✓ 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ✓ 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• ✓ 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ✓ Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• ✓ 1 lemon, sliced into rounds for garnish

Instructions

1. 1 Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, broth, olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley.
2. 2 Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillets.
3. 3 Sear the Salmon: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side up and sear for 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. 4 Assemble and Serve: Divide the fluffy quinoa between two plates. Top each with a seared salmon fillet and serve immediately with fresh lemon slices.

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is naturally gluten-free and packed with healthy fats, lean protein, and essential micronutrients. Quinoa serves as a complete plant protein supplying all nine essential amino acids, while salmon delivers a powerful dose of heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.

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