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Perfect Seared Salmon with Lemon-Infused Quinoa for Two

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A quick and healthy meal featuring crispy seared salmon paired with bright, lemon-infused quinoa. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two with simple ingredients and impressive flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on and fresh
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry quinoa (about 90 g), rinsed well
  • 1 cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth (240 ml)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1/2 cup quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove saponin.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 1 cup water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, chopped parsley, and salt to taste. Keep warm.
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
  5. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  6. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Press down gently with a spatula for 10 seconds to prevent curling. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy and releases easily.
  7. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness. Add extra 1-2 minutes if preferred more cooked. Remove from heat.
  8. Spoon lemon-infused quinoa onto plates and gently place salmon on top. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before cooking to ensure crispy skin. Use room temperature salmon for even cooking. Press down fillets when placing skin-side down to prevent curling. Avoid flipping salmon too early to allow skin to crisp and release naturally. Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. Start quinoa first as it takes longer, then prepare salmon while quinoa simmers.

Nutrition

Keywords: seared salmon, lemon quinoa, healthy dinner, quick meal, gluten-free, dairy-free, easy recipe, salmon recipe

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/perfect-seared-salmon-with-lemon-quinoa-recipe-for-two-easy-and-healthy-meal/