Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack with Avocado Cream 

Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack with Avocado Cream 

Table of Contents

This Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack is a fresh and flavorful dish packed with Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. The creamy avocado sauce adds a delicious, healthy twist while keeping it light and nutritious!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: ~30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Grilled Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Quinoa Base:

1 cup cooked quinoa (any variety: white, red, or tri-color)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

½ teaspoon lemon zest

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon cumin (optional, for a warm Mediterranean spice)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil

For the Avocado Cream:

1 ripe avocado

¼ cup Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

1 small garlic clove, minced

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon water (to thin if needed)

Instructions

 Prepare the Quinoa

Cook quinoa according to package instructions (or use pre-cooked quinoa for convenience).

Fluff with a fork and stir in olive oil, lemon zest, salt, cumin (if using), and chopped parsley or basil. Set aside.

 Grill the Salmon

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Brush this marinade over both sides of the salmon fillets.

See also  Sweet Potato & Spinach Bake

Grill on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side or until salmon is flaky and cooked through (internal temp: 145°F / 63°C).

Alternative: You can also cook it in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Make the Avocado Cream

Blend or mash together avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt until smooth.

Add a little water to thin it out, if needed.

Assemble the Stack

Use a small food ring mold (or simply layer by hand) to stack quinoa at the bottom, grilled salmon in the middle, and a dollop of avocado cream on top.

Garnish with extra parsley, lemon slices, and a drizzle of olive oil.

 Tips & Mediterranean Serving Ideas

Side Dish Ideas:

Serve with roasted Mediterranean veggies, a Greek salad, or hummus with pita.

Make it spicy:

Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the avocado cream.

For meal prep:

Store components separately and assemble before serving.

Use other grains:

Swap quinoa for bulgur, faro, or whole wheat couscous for variety.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 420

Protein: 38g

Carbohydrates: 22g

Fat: 22g

Sodium: 480mg

This Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack with Avocado Cream is fresh, vibrant, and packed with Mediterranean flavors!