Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Name: Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1/4 cup red onion, diced; Extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl! It’s a fresh and vibrant dish that brings together the zesty flavors of cilantro and lime with perfectly cooked salmon and fluffy quinoa. Each bite feels like a little celebration of flavors, and it’s incredibly satisfying. I often make this for lunch or dinner, and the best part is that it’s super quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, you’re going to want this bowl in your weekly meal rotation!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:10:27.507Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen was filled with the delightful aroma of salmon cooking and fresh cilantro. I combined the ingredients with care, ensuring the flavors melded perfectly. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing that elevates the dish, and I like to add a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness to balance everything.

Cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water adds extra depth to the base. After numerous attempts, I’ve found that letting the quinoa rest after cooking makes it fluffier, allowing it to soak in all the flavors from the lime vinaigrette I drizzle on top. It truly is a labor of love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The vibrant, zesty flavor combination is refreshing and invigorating.
Healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free meal option.
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Mastering Quinoa Cooking

Cooking quinoa perfectly is essential for achieving the right texture in this bowl. Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitterness—this step is crucial for a bright flavor. When cooking, keep an eye on the simmering quinoa; it should bubble gently, not boil violently. This way, the grains will absorb the liquid evenly without becoming mushy. Fluff it with a fork after cooking for the best texture, creating that light and airy quality that complements the salmon beautifully.

To add extra flavor to your quinoa, consider toasting it lightly in the pan before adding the vegetable broth. Just a minute or two over medium heat will enhance the nutty taste, which pairs wonderfully with the zesty salmon. You can also swap out the vegetable broth for chicken broth for a richer flavor, or even try a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist, modifying the dish's profile to match your preferences.

Perfecting the Salmon

Cooking the salmon to perfection is key in this bowl; aim for salmon that is moist and flaky. A medium-high heat is best—a hot skillet will give you a nice sear while also keeping the inside tender. If your salmon tends to overcook, consider keeping the heat slightly lower and extending the cooking time, checking for that tender, flaky texture by gently pressing down on the fillet with a fork. A digital thermometer can be your best friend, ensuring it reaches 145°F for optimal doneness.

Fresh herbs add an aromatic depth to the salmon; cilantro offers a bright flavor that cuts through the richness of the fish. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh dill or parsley can work just as well, bringing their own unique flavors into the mix. For a spicy kick, a sprinkle of chili flakes can be used in place of salt. Always remember to let the salmon rest briefly after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor and texture.

Customizing Your Bowl

This Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand. If you’re looking to up the veggie content, consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers. You could also swap the red onion for green onions or even finely diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist. Each modification brings new flavors and textures that will keep this dish exciting week after week.

For meal prep, consider making double the quinoa and salmon, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, you can easily assemble a fresh bowl any day of the week. Additionally, the components can be frozen separately; just ensure to thaw and reheat properly for the best texture. The zesty lime dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for several days—its flavor will only deepen over time, adding even more vibrancy to your meals.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl:

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Bowl

1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1/4 cup red onion, diced
Extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl:

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Salmon

While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Place the fillets in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and flaky.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer the cooked quinoa as the base. Top with the salmon, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, corn, and red onion. Drizzle with additional lime juice and garnish with extra cilantro.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to customize the bowl with your favorite toppings like black beans or Greek yogurt.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Cilantro Lime Salmon Quinoa Bowl, consider serving it alongside a light salad or crisp slaw for added crunch. A simple cucumber salad dressed with lime juice and olive oil complements the flavors of the bowl beautifully. You could also serve some warm tortillas on the side to create a fusion-style meal, perfect for family-style dinners.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, stack your bowl with a touch of diced jalapeños or drizzle spicy sriracha atop the salmon. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual interest. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped nuts like pistachios can add a delightful crunch, enriching the overall experience with diverse textures.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the components in separate containers to maintain the freshness of each ingredient. The quinoa can last up to five days in the fridge, while cooked salmon is best consumed within three days. Always allow your bowl ingredients to cool down to room temperature before sealing them in containers to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the salmon rubbery. Instead, gently reheat the quinoa and salmon in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. Covering the skillet will help trap steam, warming everything evenly and preserving your dish's delightful textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the salmon with tofu or tempeh, and make sure to use vegetable broth for the quinoa.

→ How can I add more flavor to the quinoa?

Try cooking the quinoa with spices or sautéed garlic and onion for an extra flavor boost.