Hey there! Are you looking for a meal that’s both super healthy and incredibly delicious? I’ve got just the thing for you. Today, we’re making Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Quinoa Pilaf. It’s packed with protein, which is great for keeping you full and energized.
This dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests. The salmon bakes up flaky and moist, while the quinoa pilaf is fluffy and flavorful. It’s a perfect combination that tastes amazing and makes you feel good inside and out. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Needed
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step By Step Making
First things first, preheat your oven. You want it at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This is a good temperature for baking fish and getting everything cooked just right.
Next, prepare your salmon. Pat the salmon fillet dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get a little crispy if you’re leaving it on. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze.
Now, let’s season the salmon. Drizzle the olive oil all over the salmon. Then, sprinkle the dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the top. Gently rub the seasonings in so they stick.
Time for the lemon! Arrange the lemon slices on top of the seasoned salmon. They add a lovely citrus flavor as the fish bakes. If you like a strong lemon taste, you can add a bit of lemon juice over the top too.
While the oven heats up, let’s get the quinoa ready. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and the vegetable broth or water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium high heat.
Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer. You’ll want to cook it for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. It’s important to let it cook covered so it steams properly.
After the quinoa has cooked, let it sit covered off the heat for about 5 minutes. This lets it steam a bit more and become nice and fluffy. Then, fluff the quinoa gently with a fork.
Now, let’s add some freshness to the quinoa. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh chives, and the fresh lemon juice. This makes the pilaf bright and flavorful. Give it a good mix so everything is combined well.
Put the salmon in the preheated oven. Bake it for about 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillet. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Once the salmon is cooked and the quinoa pilaf is ready, it’s time to serve. Spoon a generous portion of the quinoa pilaf onto each plate. Then, place a beautiful piece of the lemon herb baked salmon on top or alongside the quinoa.
You can add some extra fresh parsley or chives on top for garnish if you like. A final squeeze of lemon juice over the salmon is also a great touch. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also goes wonderfully with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh green salad.
Nutritional Value
This Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Quinoa Pilaf is a fantastic source of protein. A typical serving provides around 45-50 grams of protein. This is great for muscle repair and keeping you satisfied.
The dish contains approximately 450-500 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying meal without being too heavy. It’s a good balance for a healthy diet.
For carbohydrates, a serving usually has about 30-35 grams of carbs. Most of these come from the quinoa, which is a complex carbohydrate and a good source of fiber.
Health Benefits
Salmon is a star ingredient here, and for good reason! It’s loaded with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. Whether you’re an athlete or just trying to stay active, getting enough protein is key.
Beyond muscle building, the protein in this meal helps you feel full longer. This can be really helpful if you’re trying to manage your weight. You’re less likely to snack on unhealthy things when you’re satisfied after a good meal.
Salmon is also famous for its omega-3 fatty acids. These are healthy fats that are amazing for your heart and brain health. They can help reduce inflammation in your body, which is linked to many chronic diseases. We’re talking about a dish that nourishes you from the inside out!
Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it has all nine essential amino acids that your body can’t make on its own. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep your blood sugar levels steady. This helps prevent energy crashes during the day.
The herbs and lemon add flavor without adding many calories. They also bring their own set of antioxidants and vitamins. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives contain vitamins A, C, and K, and are packed with beneficial plant compounds. Eating colorful foods like this is a simple way to boost your overall health and well being. It’s a meal that supports a healthy lifestyle, much like starting your day with a healthy option such as a Tropical Sunshine Smoothie Bowl.
Overall, this Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Quinoa Pilaf is a nutrient dense meal. It supports muscle growth, heart health, brain function, and provides sustained energy. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat well and feel great, brought to you by Azeely.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by azeely.com for general informational purposes only.
