Go Back
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Quinoa Pilaf and Steamed Broccoli
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Steamer Basket

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 cups quinoa
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Place it in a medium saucepan with the vegetable broth, onion, and half the salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest.
  • While the quinoa cooks, heat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Stir together the parsley, dill, lemon zest, remaining salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl.
  • Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them on the baking sheet. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
  • Bake the salmon for 12 to 14 minutes until it flakes easily and the herb crust is lightly golden.
  • While the salmon bakes, set a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 5 to 6 minutes until bright green and tender.
  • Fluff the quinoa with a fork. Divide the pilaf among four plates, add a salmon fillet to each, and serve with steamed broccoli and lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the dry quinoa in the saucepan for two minutes before adding the broth. If you prefer a softer crust, press the herb mixture gently so it adheres well during baking. Leftovers reheat best in a 350-degree oven for 8 minutes to keep the salmon moist and the crust from becoming soggy. You can swap the dill for tarragon if that is what you have on hand.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Baking Sheet, Medium Saucepan, Steamer Basket