Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack with Avocado Cream 😍

Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Stack with Avocado Cream 😍

This stunning dish is packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors. Perfect for an elegant meal, this dish features flaky grilled salmon, creamy avocado, and nutrient-rich quinoa in a beautifully layered stack.

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Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

For the Quinoa Base:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (white, red, or mixed)
• ½ tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Handful of fresh spinach or arugula (for layering)

For the Avocado Cream:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)

For Garnish:

• Diced tomatoes or salsa
• Black sesame seeds
• Microgreens or fresh herbs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Quinoa Base:

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Make the Avocado Cream:

1. In a bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
2. Add lime juice, Greek yogurt, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Stir in fresh cilantro if using. Set aside.

3. Grill the Salmon:

1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until the salmon is flaky and slightly charred. Drizzle with lemon juice.

4. Assemble the Stack:

1. Place a layer of quinoa at the base.
2. Add a handful of spinach or arugula.
3. Place one grilled salmon fillet on top.
4. Spread a layer of avocado cream.
5. Add another salmon fillet.
6. Top with diced tomatoes, black sesame seeds, and microgreens.

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Notes & Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon, and garlic for 15 minutes before grilling.
• Make it dairy-free by replacing Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or leaving it out.
• Add more crunch by sprinkling toasted nuts or seeds on top.

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Servings & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

• Servings: 2
• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Healthy Fats: 22g

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Health Benefits

✅ Rich in Omega-3s – Salmon supports heart and brain health.
✅ High-Protein Meal – Great for muscle recovery and energy.
✅ Gut-Healthy Fiber – Avocado and quinoa aid digestion.
✅ Antioxidant-Rich – Tomatoes, lime, and greens boost immunity.

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Q&A

❓ Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling?
✔️ Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.

❓ What can I use instead of quinoa?
✔️ Brown rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice work well.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! Store the components separately and assemble before serving.

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Would you like any customizations? 😊