High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Studio

I love how nourishing and filling this High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl is. It not only satisfies my hunger, but it also provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures that I crave after a busy day. The tender, flaky salmon paired with vibrant vegetables and nutritious grains seems to strike the perfect balance for a wholesome meal. Plus, it's so easy to prepare that I can whip it up in no time. This bowl has quickly become a weeknight staple that I’m excited to share with you!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:33:35.594Z

When I first tried this High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl, it was love at first bite! I had been looking for a healthy yet satisfying dinner option, and this bowl delivered on all fronts. The balance of protein from the salmon, fiber from the veggies, and carbs from the quinoa makes it a complete meal that keeps me energetic.

As I developed this recipe, I experimented with different vegetables and grains. Quinoa is my go-to because it cooks up light and fluffy while adding an extra protein punch. I also discovered that lightly seared salmon, drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, elevates the entire dish. You won't regret giving this recipe a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious blend of protein, veggies, and grains
Customizable to suit your taste preferences
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Choosing the Right Salmon

When preparing your High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl, selecting fresh salmon is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that have a vibrant, deep color and a slightly moist surface. Avoid any that have brown spots or a dull appearance, as this can indicate age. Skin-on fillets can also add a nice layer of flavor when seared, as the fats render down nicely during cooking.

If you're looking to make a sustainable choice, consider opting for wild-caught salmon, which tends to be richer in omega-3 fatty acids and has a firmer texture. However, farmed salmon can be equally delicious and is often more readily available. Depending on your preference, feel free to substitute salmon with other fatty fish like trout or even shrimp for a different spin on the recipe.

Perfecting Cooked Quinoa

To achieve perfectly cooked quinoa, rinsing it before cooking is essential. This process removes the natural saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. Place rinsed quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and run cold water over it until the water runs clear. Instead of using water, the use of vegetable broth enhances the flavor profile, giving the quinoa a savory note that complements the salmon and vegetables beautifully.

Once cooked, let the quinoa sit covered for about 5 extra minutes off the heat. This resting period allows it to absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a fluffier texture. If you're making extra, consider storing it in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can easily reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to regain its moisture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your salmon bowl:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to choose fresh salmon for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious salmon dinner bowl:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.

Prepare the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add broccoli and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and top with the seared salmon and avocado slices. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious salmon dinner bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl with your favorite vegetables or grains. You can also add nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Salmon Dinner Bowl is incredibly versatile and lends itself well to personalization. Consider adding some pickled red onions or a dollop of tzatziki for a refreshing twist. You could also top it off with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of walnuts for added creaminess and crunch. If you have leftover ingredients, feel free to mix in whatever you have in your fridge; it’s an excellent way to reduce waste while enjoying a nutritious meal.

For those who enjoy meal prep, this bowl can be easily prepared in advance. You can cook the salmon and quinoa on the weekend and portion them for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just keep the components separate until serving to ensure everything stays fresh. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when cooking salmon is overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F. If you don't have one, you can check for doneness by gently flaking the flesh with a fork; it should easily separate and appear opaque. If it’s translucent in the center, give it another minute or two in the pan and check again.

Another point to consider is the broccoli's crispness. If you prefer your broccoli softer, add it to the skillet earlier in the cooking process, around the same time as the salmon. For a quicker prep, you can also steam it briefly before sautéing, which will give it a head start and ensure it’s not overcooked by meal’s end.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking for best results.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, couscous, or any grain of your choice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.