Warm Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl

Name: Warm Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup spinach, packed; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon (for juice and zest); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I can't get enough of this Warm Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl! It’s a delightful combination of earthy quinoa, savory salmon, and vibrant vegetables that brings a burst of flavor and nutrition to my table. Each bite is a testament to how healthy eating can be both satisfying and delicious. This power bowl is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing me to swap in whatever fresh vegetables I have on hand. Join me on the journey to discover how this wholesome meal can perfectly fuel your day!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:34:27.929Z

When I first made this Warm Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl, I was amazed at how easy it was to create a meal that felt so indulgent yet was packed with nutrients. Cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond a simple grain bowl. The oven-baked salmon, seasoned with just lemon and herbs, turns out perfectly flaky and flavorful, contrasting beautifully with the nutty quinoa and crisp veggies.

After several experiments with this recipe, I discovered that roasting the vegetables rather than steaming them brings out their natural sweetness, making the entire dish even more enjoyable. I love mixing seasonal vegetables, so it’s never the same bowl twice! This recipe is my go-to for a healthy yet exciting meal that keeps me energized throughout the day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and satisfying meal that fuels your energy
Fresh and vibrant flavors come together beautifully
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

The Power of Quinoa

Quinoa is not only a great source of protein but also packed with essential amino acids, making it a complete protein choice for a plant-based diet. When cooked, it offers a delightfully nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture. This recipe uses vegetable broth to infuse the quinoa with rich flavor from the start—be sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste.

For those looking to boost their fiber intake, quinoa is an excellent choice. The fluffy grains contain about 5 grams of fiber per cup when cooked, promoting digestive health and satiety. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in different types of grains, such as farro or barley, which can add unique textures and flavors to this power bowl.

Salmon Cooking Perfection

Baking the salmon at 400°F is ideal for achieving a tender, flaky texture while locking in moisture. If you want to enhance the natural flavors, consider marinating the fillets for 15-30 minutes before baking. A mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and a drizzle of honey makes a delicious glaze. Keep an eye on the salmon—overcooking can lead to a dry texture, so monitor it closely around the 15-minute mark for that perfect fork-flaking finish.

If you're looking for variations, substitute the salmon with other fatty fish such as trout or mackerel, which offer similar health benefits. For a vegetarian twist, you can use baked tempeh or chickpeas, both of which provide protein and absorb the delicious seasoning blend well.

A Vibrant Vegetable Medley

Roasting the cherry tomatoes and bell pepper brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall depth of flavor in your bowl. It's crucial to space them out on the baking sheet to promote even roasting; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting. Aim for a golden color and slight caramelization, which usually occurs around the 15-minute mark.

You can easily customize the vegetables in this power bowl based on what's seasonal or available in your fridge. Consider adding zucchini ribbons, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a handful of broccoli florets. For an extra crunch, toss some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving—pine nuts or sunflower seeds complement this dish wonderfully.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start, and have fun with it!

Main Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup spinach, packed
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon (for juice and zest)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Salmon

While the quinoa is cooking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Roast the Vegetables

On a separate baking sheet, spread the cherry tomatoes and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven for about 15 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the quinoa, followed by the roasted vegetables, fresh spinach, and baked salmon. Top with sliced avocado and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon zest.

Enjoy your vibrant power bowl!

Pro Tips

To save time, you can prepare the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Use leftover roasted vegetables for added convenience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Warm Quinoa Salmon Power Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the quinoa and roast the vegetables in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When you are ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the quinoa and vegetables in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, and finish by adding the baked salmon and fresh toppings.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored as well. The quinoa and salmon can be kept together, while the vegetables can be added fresh. Just remember that fresh avocado won’t hold up well, so it's best to add that right before serving to maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your power bowl, consider drizzling a homemade tahini sauce or a zesty yogurt dressing over the top. This adds a creamy, tangy component that balances the flavors beautifully. Additionally, serving the bowl with a wedge of lemon on the side can offer a fresh burst of acidity that enhances every bite.

Feel free to get creative with garnishes—sprinkling sesame seeds or nutritional yeast offers a nutty flavor and boosts the nutritional profile. Adding a handful of microgreens or sprouts provides a lovely crunch while contributing extra vitamins and minerals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe also works well with trout or cod.

→ How can I make this vegan?

Replace the salmon with your choice of tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy them cold or reheat in the microwave.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to include your favorite seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, broccoli, or carrots.