Easy Salmon Quinoa Salad Recipe – Healthy & Delicious Lunch Idea!

Table of Contents: Salmon Quinoa Salad

A Fresh, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed Meal You’ll Love

Looking for a lunch that’s both nutritious and delicious? This Salmon Quinoa Salad is the answer! Packed with flaky salmon, fluffy quinoa, crisp veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrients. Whether you need a quick weekday lunch, a meal prep superstar, or a light yet satisfying dinner, this salad delivers.

What makes it special? It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and loaded with healthy ingredients that keep you full and energized. Plus, it’s way tastier (and healthier!) than takeout. If you loved our Kale and Roasted Cauliflower Salad – A Healthy Flavor-Packed Recipe, you’ll adore this protein-rich twist.

Ready to dive in? Let’s make the best Salmon Quinoa Salad you’ve ever tasted!


What is Salmon Quinoa Salad?

Ever wondered why this dish is called Salmon Quinoa Salad? Well, it’s not just because it has salmon and quinoa (though that’s a big part of it!). This salad is a perfect marriage of textures and flavors—tender salmon, nutty quinoa, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together.

Some say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this salad will win over even the pickiest eaters. It’s fresh, filling, and packed with protein, making it a go-to for health-conscious foodies.

So, why not give it a try? One bite, and you’ll see why this salad deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation!


Why You’ll Love This Salmon Quinoa Salad

1. Nutrient-Packed & Satisfying

This salad is a complete meal in one bowl—protein from salmon, fiber from quinoa, and vitamins from fresh veggies. It keeps you full for hours without weighing you down.

2. Budget-Friendly & Meal-Prep Ready

Skip the expensive takeout! Making this at home is cheaper and healthier. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

3. Bursting with Flavor

The lemon-dill dressing adds a bright, herby kick, while the avocado and cherry tomatoes bring creaminess and sweetness. Every bite is a flavor explosion!

If you enjoyed our Greek Ground Turkey Salad Bowl 🥙 Easy, Healthy & Delicious Recipe!, you’ll love this protein-packed version. Ready to make it? Let’s get cooking!


How to Make Salmon Quinoa Salad

Salmon Quinoa Salad
Salmon Quinoa Salad

Quick Overview

This salad is ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cooking. Just cook the quinoa, pan-sear the salmon, chop the veggies, and toss everything with a simple homemade dressing.

Key Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
2 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
1 avocado (diced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 cucumber (diced)
¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
¼ cup fresh dill (chopped)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon (juiced)
Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa – Rinse quinoa, then cook in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Season & sear the salmon – Heat olive oil in a pan, season salmon with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Flake into chunks.
3. Chop the veggies – Dice avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Make the dressing – Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the salad – Mix quinoa, salmon, veggies, and dressing in a large bowl.
6. Serve & enjoy!


What to Serve With Salmon Quinoa Salad

This salad is fantastic on its own, but if you want to turn it into a full meal, try pairing it with:
Garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
Grilled asparagus for extra greens.
A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing touch.

Looking for more salad ideas? Check out our Pomegranate Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette – Fresh & Healthy Recipe for another easy, healthy option!


Top Tips for Perfecting Salmon Quinoa Salad

Use fresh salmon for the best flavor, but canned salmon works in a pinch.
Let quinoa cool before mixing to avoid a mushy texture.
Add feta cheese for extra creaminess.
Double the dressing if you love bold flavors.


Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended (avocado and cucumber don’t freeze well).
Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but you can gently warm the quinoa and salmon if preferred.


People Also Ask: Salmon Quinoa Salad

Salmon Quinoa Salad
Salmon Quinoa Salad

What ingredients are typically in a salmon quinoa salad?

A classic salmon quinoa salad includes cooked quinoa, flaked salmon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a lemon-dill dressing. Some variations add feta, spinach, or nuts for extra texture.

Is salmon quinoa salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stays fresh for 3 days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately if prepping ahead.

How do you make a dressing for salmon quinoa salad?

Mix lemon juice, olive oil, fresh dill, salt, and pepper for a simple, zesty dressing. For extra flavor, add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard.

Can I use canned salmon for quinoa salad?

Yes! Canned salmon is a great budget-friendly option. Just drain and flake it before mixing into the salad.


Conclusion

This Salmon Quinoa Salad is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With its flaky salmon, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies, it’s a dish you’ll crave again and again.

Ready to try it? Whip up a batch today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to explore our Greek Ground Turkey Salad Bowl for another healthy favorite.

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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Salmon Quinoa Salad

Salmon Quinoa Salad


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

A light and nutritious salmon quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty lemon dressing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa in water or vegetable broth according to package instructions. Let it cool.
  2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Flake into large chunks.
  3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and mixed greens.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  6. Top the salad with the flaked salmon.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before cooking.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop / Grilled
  • Cuisine: Healthy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: salmon, quinoa, salad, healthy, light meal, protein