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Mediterranean Salmon Bowl

Mediterranean Salmon Bowl with creamy lemon tahini dressing close up

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A quick and flavorful bowl featuring crispy seared salmon, fluffy quinoa, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon tahini dressing. This 25-minute meal is packed with protein and Mediterranean flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 English cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons water (plus more to thin)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them until the skin is golden and crispy.
  3. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes for medium doneness. The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be moist in the center. Remove from the pan and let rest for 2 minutes.
  4. Divide the cooked quinoa or couscous between two or four bowls. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and avocado slices around the bowl. Place a salmon fillet on top. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh herbs.
  5. For the dressing: whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Add more water a tablespoon at a time until the dressing is smooth and pourable. Drizzle generously over the finished bowls.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative. To lower carbs, swap quinoa for cauliflower rice or extra greens. Store leftovers separately: cooked salmon in the fridge for up to 3 days, and dressing will thicken; add water before using.

Nutrition