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Quinoa Lentil Salmon Salad Recipe

4.5 from 59 reviews

A nutritious and wholesome Quinoa Lentil Salmon Salad, featuring protein-rich salmon atop a hearty blend of cooked quinoa and lentils, finished with a bright squeeze of fresh lemon for a refreshing and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

Salmon

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Finishing Touches

  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa and Lentils: Place quinoa and lentils in separate pots, cover each with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer quinoa for about 15 minutes and lentils for 20-25 minutes or until both are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let them cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. You can either pan-sear the salmon in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes each side until cooked through or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and lentils. Flake the salmon into large chunks and gently fold it into the grain mixture.
  4. Add Lemon and Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss to combine all flavors.
  5. Serve: Serve the salad warm or chilled as a complete, protein-packed meal perfect for lunches or light dinners.

Notes

  • You can substitute brown lentils with red or black lentils depending on availability.
  • For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
  • Leftover salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure quinoa and lentils are rinsed well and sourced gluten-free certified if necessary.

Keywords: quinoa salad, lentil salad, salmon salad, healthy salad, protein salad, Mediterranean salad, easy dinner recipe