Pan-Seared Salmon with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli
Feeling overwhelmed by homemade dinner recipes? You can create a healthy and delicious meal tonight with this easy pan-seared salmon, fluffy quinoa, and vibrant steamed broccoli. This simple recipe is perfect for weeknights and packed with flavor, proving that healthy homemade dinner recipes don’t have to be complicated.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Salmon Fillets: Look for skin-on or skinless. Cod or halibut can work as alternatives.
- Quinoa: White, red, or tricolor quinoa are all fine. Brown rice is a good substitute.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best. Green beans or asparagus can be used instead.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors. Lime works too.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for the best taste. Garlic powder is a quick alternative.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh
- 1/2 cup water (for steaming)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, medium saucepan with lid, steamer basket (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine quinoa and water or broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed.
2. Steam the Broccoli
While the quinoa cooks, place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over 1/2 cup of water in a pot, or directly in a pot with 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp. If using garlic, add it to the broccoli for the last minute of steaming. Season with salt and pepper after steaming.
3. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps create a crispy skin. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper.
4. Pan-Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) in the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
5. Finish Cooking the Salmon
Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-5 minutes, depending on thickness, until cooked through and flaky. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Assemble Your Meal
Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Divide the quinoa, steamed broccoli, and pan-seared salmon onto two plates. Serve immediately with a fresh lemon wedge for squeezing over the salmon. Enjoy your homemade dinner recipes success!
Variation Ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salmon seasoning.
- Herbaceous Touch: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or dill over the finished salmon and quinoa.
- Different Veggies: Use asparagus, green beans, or snap peas instead of broccoli.
- Sauce It: Drizzle with a simple lemon-dill sauce or a balsamic glaze.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover pan-seared salmon, quinoa, and broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the quinoa from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing?
Yes, you can bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Do I have to rinse quinoa?
Rinsing quinoa removes its natural bitter coating called saponin, resulting in a better taste.
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Steam it directly from frozen for a few extra minutes until tender.
- What if I don’t have a steamer basket?
You can steam broccoli by placing it in a pot with about an inch of water, covering it, and cooking until tender.
- Is this a good meal for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping healthy homemade dinner recipes for the week.
