Mediterranean Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets (about 150–180 g each), skin removed

• 1½ tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme

• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon

For the Quinoa Base

• ¾ cup uncooked quinoa (white or tri-color)

• 1½ cups water or vegetable broth

• ¼ tsp salt

Bowl Toppings

• ½ cup hummus (classic or lemon)

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup mixed olives (green & kalamata), pitted

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.

2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water (or broth), and salt.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat, let rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

2. Season the Salmon

1. Pat salmon dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

3. Rub the mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon.

3. Cook the Salmon

Pan-sear method (recommended):

1. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add a small drizzle of olive oil.

3. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden, slightly crispy outside, and just cooked through inside.

4. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes, then cut into large chunks.

(Optional: grill or oven-roast at 200°C / 400°F for 10–12 minutes.)

4. Assemble the Bowl

1. Spoon quinoa into serving bowls as the base.

2. Add salmon pieces on top.

3. Add a generous scoop of hummus to one side.

4. Scatter olives and feta over the bowl.

5. Sprinkle with fresh herbs.

6. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

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Serving Tips

• Serve warm or at room temperature.

• Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or roasted vegetables for extra crunch.

• Swap salmon for grilled chicken or tofu if desired.

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Flavor Profile

Savory, herby salmon + fluffy quinoa + creamy hummus + briny olives = balanced, Mediterranean, clean but still comfort food.