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Quinoa Salad with Salmon

Quinoa Salad with Salmon: The Ultimate Summer Refreshment

A vibrant and healthy Quinoa Salad with Salmon packed with protein and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer dining.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup quinoa Any color works beautifully.
  • 1 cup fresh corn Use raw off-the-cob or sautéed.
  • 1 cup radishes Any variety works well or omit if desired.
  • 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes Substitute with other tomato varieties.
  • 1 cup English cucumber Any cucumber variant can be used.
  • 1 small red onion Swap with scallions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup feta cheese Omit for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup fresh basil Replace with parsley if you don't have basil.
  • 1 medium avocado Slice just before serving.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.
  • 1 small shallot Red onion is a great alternative.
  • 1 clove garlic Using fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin Lends warmth and earthiness.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Maple syrup can be used as a vegan substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon tarragon Replace with any fresh herbs you enjoy.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Omit for a milder flavor.
  • to taste salt Adjust to your taste preference.
  • to taste pepper Freshly cracked is best.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • fine mesh sieve
  • small jar for vinaigrette

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve for about 30 seconds. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped shallot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of cumin.
  3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan, stirring to coat, and allow to toast for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, bringing to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
  5. After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let rest for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
  6. In a small jar, combine 1 chopped shallot, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of tarragon, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Shake to combine.
  7. Pat two salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  8. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, cooking for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  9. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with 1 cup of fresh corn, diced radishes, halved tomatoes, chopped cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently.
  10. Top with sliced avocado and additional feta crumbles, garnish with basil leaves, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best flavor, assemble the salad just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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