Quinoa Power Bowl with Salmon, Almonds & Greek Yogurt Sauce
Serves: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (½ cup dry)
- 2 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- ½ avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: squeeze of lemon for freshness
For the Greek Yogurt Herb Sauce:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
🍽️ Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse ½ cup quinoa under cold water.
- In a small pot, combine quinoa with 1 cup water and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place salmon fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
3. Make the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
- In each bowl, add a base of quinoa and greens.
- Top with salmon, tomatoes, avocado, and almonds.
- Drizzle with the Greek yogurt herb sauce.
- Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon or extra fresh herbs.
✅ Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)
- High-quality protein from salmon, quinoa, and yogurt
- Omega-3s to reduce muscle inflammation
- Magnesium and healthy fats from almonds
- Fiber and complex carbs for energy
- Calcium and probiotics for bone and gut health
❓ Q&A: Muscle-Loving Meal Edition
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap the salmon with grilled tempeh or chickpeas and it’s still packed with muscle-friendly nutrients.
Q: How often should I eat meals like this?
A: 2–3 times a week is a great start for leg strength. Consistency is key!
Q: Can I meal-prep this?
A: Yes! Cook the quinoa and salmon in advance and store everything in separate containers. Assemble fresh for best taste.
Q: Is this diabetic-friendly?
A: Yes—quinoa is a complex carb with a lower glycemic index, and the healthy fats/proteins help stabilize blood sugar.