Discover the beauty of simplicity with this nourishing Simple Salmon Bowl. This recipe brings together perfectly cooked salmon, fluffy quinoa, and vibrant broccoli for a complete, balanced meal thatโs both effortless and elegant. Itโs a clean, wholesome dish designed to fuel your body and bring a moment of calm to your busy day.
๐ TIME
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total: 25 min
๐จ๐ฉ๐ง๐ฆ Servings: 2โ3
๐ INGREDIENTS
- 2 salmon fillets (about 150โ180 g each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black and white pepper, to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
๐ฉ๐ณ PREPARATION
- Cook the quinoa: In a small pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
- Steam the broccoli: While the quinoa cooks, lightly steam the broccoli florets for 3โ4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and tender-crisp, so they still have a bit of a bite.
- Cook the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and white pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot pan and sear for 4โ5 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until it’s cooked through but still juicy.
- Assemble the bowls: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide it among your bowls. Add the steamed broccoli and top with a beautiful salmon fillet. A final drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is all it needs.
๐ก Vitalicious Tip:
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the salmon. Giving each fillet enough space ensures it gets a beautiful, crispy sear instead of steaming.
๐ NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
- A complete protein powerhouse: Both salmon and quinoa are complete proteins, meaning they provide all the essential amino acids your body needs for energy, growth, and repair.
- Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3s, which are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy heart.
- Packed with fiber & greens: With fiber from the quinoa and vitamins from the broccoli, this bowl is fantastic for digestive health and provides a wonderful boost of essential nutrients.
๐ธ VARIATION / OPTION
Feel free to swap the quinoa for another whole grain like brown rice or farro. You can also roast the broccoli with a little olive oil and garlic instead of steaming it for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
๐ SERVING SUGGESTION
Assemble this vibrant meal in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures. The flaky pink salmon next to the bright green broccoli and fluffy quinoa makes for a simple, stunning presentationโyour perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of clean, simple nourishment. ๐
Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swap the broccoli for another vegetable?
Definitely. Steamed green beans, asparagus, or sautรฉed spinach work beautifully while keeping the bowl colorful and nutritious.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon should be opaque throughout, flake easily with a fork, and still feel slightly firm in the center. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
Can I make this recipe plant-based?
Yes! Swap the salmon for grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. Pair with quinoa and broccoli for a complete, protein-rich meal.
Can I add extra flavor to the bowl?
Try a drizzle of lemon-tahini dressing, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a bright, fresh touch.
Why is this bowl so healthy?
Itโs packed with complete proteins (salmon and quinoa), omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, and fiber and vitamins from broccoliโmaking it a balanced, energizing meal.
Can kids enjoy this meal?
Definitely! The simple flavors, soft textures, and colorful presentation make it appealing to kids. You can flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
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