Table of Contents
Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal with this Fresh Herb Quinoa Salad that pairs perfectly with baked salmon. This dish is easy to prepare, vibrant, and packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Allow it to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with chopped herbs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature alongside your baked salmon.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with baked or grilled salmon.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
This Fresh Herb Quinoa Salad is a versatile, healthy addition to any seafood meal. Its bright flavors and fresh ingredients make it a perfect complement to the rich, savory taste of baked salmon. Enjoy your nutritious and colorful meal!