Ready for a bowl of pure bliss? My Savory Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Quinoa delight your taste buds while packing in nutrients. With tender salmon, fluffy quinoa, and crisp veggies, you’ll have a tasty meal in no time. Whether you’re a busy parent or a health enthusiast, this recipe is simple and satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
To make your teriyaki salmon bowls with quinoa, gather these fresh ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red or yellow)
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both tasty and healthy. The salmon provides rich flavor and healthy fats. Quinoa serves as a great base packed with protein. The colorful veggies add crunch and nutrients.
I love how versatile this recipe is. You can swap the veggies based on what you have. Think snap peas or zucchini! Don’t forget to check out the Full Recipe for more detailed steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Quinoa
To cook the quinoa, start by rinsing it under cold water. This removes any bitter taste. Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid is absorbed. After removing it from the heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork. This step makes it light and airy.
Preparing the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, lay the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle some olive oil over them and season with salt and pepper. Use a brush to coat each fillet with teriyaki sauce. This adds great flavor as the salmon cooks.
Roasting the Salmon
Now, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. This simple roasting method keeps the salmon moist and flavorful.
Sautéing the Vegetables
While the salmon roasts, heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot to the pan. Sauté these veggies for 5 to 7 minutes. They should be bright and tender but still crisp. This adds color and texture to your bowl.
Assembling the Bowls
Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start by adding a generous scoop of quinoa as the base. Place the roasted salmon on top. Next, arrange the sautéed vegetables alongside the salmon. This creates a vibrant and healthy meal.
Garnishing and Serving
To finish, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over each bowl. If you want more flavor, drizzle a bit of extra teriyaki sauce on top. Serve these bowls warm and enjoy your delicious teriyaki salmon bowls with quinoa. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Salmon
To make salmon just right, you need to watch the time. Bake your salmon at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes. Check it with a fork; it should flake easily. If you want it juicier, brush on extra teriyaki sauce before baking. You can also use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures it is safe and tasty.
Customizing Your Quinoa
Quinoa is versatile. You can cook it in broth for more flavor. Use either vegetable or chicken broth, as it adds depth. Adding herbs or spices to the cooking water also works. For a nutty taste, toast your quinoa in a dry pan for a few minutes before cooking. This makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
Add a kick by mixing in fresh ginger or garlic. These add warmth and a nice aroma. You can also toss in nuts or seeds for crunch. A handful of spinach or kale boosts nutrition and color. For heat, try a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes. These simple changes make your teriyaki salmon bowls even more exciting and unique.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Introducing Alternative Proteins
You can swap out salmon for other proteins. Try chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Each protein brings its own flavor. Chicken works well with teriyaki sauce. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Shrimp cooks quickly, adding a nice touch. Just adjust cooking times for each protein to ensure they are tender and juicy.
Adding More Vegetables
You can always load up your bowl with more veggies. Consider adding snap peas, zucchini, or spinach. These vegetables add color and nutrients. They also keep the dish fresh. If you want a crunchy bite, try radishes or cabbage. You can mix and match based on what you have at home. The more, the merrier!
Making it Spicy with Sriracha or Chili Flakes
If you love heat, add sriracha or chili flakes. A drizzle of sriracha on top gives a nice kick. You can also mix it into the teriyaki sauce for a spicy twist. Chili flakes sprinkled over the dish will wake up your taste buds. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. Enjoy the extra warmth in every bite!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
You can store leftover teriyaki salmon bowls in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, eat them within two days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the salmon and quinoa in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. If it feels dry, add a splash of broth or water before heating. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat. This keeps the salmon juicy.
Freezing the Components
You can freeze the salmon and quinoa separately. Wrap each salmon fillet in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to three months. For quinoa, let it cool, then store in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight. This way, you will always have a tasty meal on hand.
For the full recipe, check back to the ingredients and steps above.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice has a different texture and flavor. It takes longer to cook than quinoa. If you choose brown rice, cook it according to package instructions. This way, it will be ready when your salmon is done.
How long does teriyaki salmon keep in the fridge?
Teriyaki salmon stays fresh in the fridge for about three days. Store it in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it down first to keep it safe. Reheat it gently when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap the salmon for tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu in teriyaki sauce before cooking. Use the same cooking methods for the tofu. This will give you a tasty vegetarian dish.
What is the best teriyaki sauce for salmon?
The best teriyaki sauce is one that balances sweet and savory flavors. You can use store-bought or make your own. Look for a sauce with low sodium for a healthier option. Homemade sauces can taste fresher and more vibrant.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. Use a fork to test it gently. The inside should be opaque and not translucent. If you have a food thermometer, the thickest part should reach 145°F (63°C). Cooking it just right makes it tender and juicy.
This post shared a healthy salmon and quinoa bowl recipe. You learned how to cook salmon perfectly and prepare fresh veggies. Plus, I gave tips on storing leftovers and making the dish your own.
Try different proteins or spice it up with chili flakes. Enjoy making this meal your way! With easy steps and great flavors, you can impress anyone who tastes it. Happy cooking!
