Grilled salmon is a delectable and healthy dish that never fails to impress. When paired with a flavorful quinoa pilaf, it creates a wholesome and satisfying meal. This article will guide you through the process of preparing a mouthwatering lemon herb grilled salmon with a delightful quinoa pilaf. Get ready to indulge in a burst of flavors and textures!
Ingredients
For the Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa Pilaf:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh dill, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the marinade generously onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
- Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Preparing the Quinoa Pilaf:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain well.
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil and sauté the mixed vegetables until they are tender.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the sautéed vegetables, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
To serve, place a portion of the lemon herb grilled salmon on a plate and spoon a generous serving of the quinoa pilaf alongside it. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make your mouth water. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
Variations and Tips
1. For a citrusy twist, you can add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for the grilled salmon. 2. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to create your own unique flavor profile. 3. If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can use a cedar plank to grill the salmon. 4. Feel free to customize the quinoa pilaf by adding your favorite vegetables or incorporating some toasted nuts for added crunch. 5. If you're vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the salmon with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in a similar lemon herb mixture. 6. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets to ensure they are perfectly cooked and moist.
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Pilaf is a delightful combination that brings together the natural goodness of salmon and the nutty flavors of quinoa. This dish not only pleases the palate but also provides a nutritious and balanced meal. The burst of flavors from the lemon, herbs, and perfectly grilled salmon, coupled with the fluffy and aromatic quinoa pilaf, will leave you wanting more. So, fire up your grill, gather the ingredients, and treat yourself to this delicious and wholesome dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!