Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus Quinoa

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some easy high protein meals that are actually delicious? I know, right? This lemon herb baked salmon recipe is a game changer. It's bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Brief Overview

Originally inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this baked dish is simple yet elegant. You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep, 20 minutes to cook, serving two.

It's so easy, even my mate who burns toast can nail it!

Main Benefits

The star? Salmon, of course! This recipe is a great source of Omega-3, contributing to a healthy heart. Looking for high protein dinner ideas ? This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a classy weekend meal.

Craving a healthy and delicious meal? This recipe is about to become your go-to.

This is one of my favorite quick high protein recipes . It is packed with fresh, bright flavors that are perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.

I love making it because it feels fancy but takes minimal effort!

What You Need to Know About Lemon Herb Baked Salmon

This recipe isn't just about taste; it's also a winner for your health. Healthy salmon recipes don't have to be complicated.

With this, you’re getting your dose of Omega-3 fatty acids which are really good for the heart. This Salmon with quinoa recipe is also super simple to adapt to what you have on hand.

Key Benefits for You

Need some high protein lunch ideas ? This baked salmon recipe is a fantastic option. It's quick, satisfying, and won’t leave you feeling sluggish.

For those looking at high protein low carb meals , swapping the quinoa for cauliflower rice is a brilliant solution.

It maintains the protein punch while keeping carbs in check. Plus, it fits perfectly into most baked fish recipes healthy diets.

The lemon and herbs give it a real zing, making it a delightful meal any day of the week.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Okay, so we're making my Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus & Quinoa. Honestly, it’s easier than ordering takeout! This is one of my go-to easy high protein meals .

It’s packed with flavour. Plus, it's a healthy way to enjoy baked fish.

Main Players

Here's what you'll need for this high protein dinner ideas masterpiece:

• Salmon Fillets: 2 (6-ounce/170g) fillets. Fresh is best. Look for firm, vibrant flesh. This gives you all you need for easy high protein meals .
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) for the salmon and another 1 tablespoon (15ml) for the asparagus.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) – freshly squeezed is a game changer.
• Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon – adds a zesty pop.
• Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
• Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon (approx. 5g) , chopped. Parsley, dill, and chives are my faves!
• Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) , trimmed.
• Quinoa: 1/2 cup (90g) , rinsed.
• Water/Broth: 1 cup (240ml) . I like using veggie broth for extra flavour.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course.

Seasoning & Flavour Boosters

Lemon and herbs are a classic combo. Don't skip the lemon zest! It really elevates the dish. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

If you're missing fresh herbs, dried ones work in a pinch. Reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more potent.

Experiment with different flavour combos; this is where the high protein low carb meals get unique.

The Right Tools for the Job

Don't worry, you don't need fancy gadgets. You know? Here’s what you need to follow these quick high protein recipes :

• Baking Sheet: Essential for baking the salmon and asparagus.
• Parchment Paper: Makes cleanup a breeze, but not a must have.
• Small Saucepan: For cooking the quinoa. A pot will do the trick if you don't have a saucepan.

Alright, now that we've got our ingredients and equipment sorted, let's move on to the fun part. Trust me, even the most basic chef can pull off these healthy salmon recipes .

And remember to use the Salmon with quinoa recipe . It is an incredibly tasty High Protein Dinner Ideas .

Cooking Method: Bake Your Way to Deliciousness

Baking isn't just for cookies and cakes, you know? Honestly, it's one of the easiest ways to get some easy high protein meals on the table, especially when you're trying to be healthy.

Think of it as the "set it and forget it" of cooking. I'm gonna share how I bake my favourite lemon herb baked salmon with roasted asparagus for a quick and delish high protein dinner idea !

Prep Like a Pro

First, let's get organized. This is called mise en place fancy, right? Basically, it means having all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go.

Rinse the 1/2 cup quinoa . Chop the herbs. Trim the 1 pound asparagus . Zest that lemon! I'm telling you, it’ll save you time.

Also, preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .

Safety first, people! Remember to use oven mitts. Don't be like me, who once got a burn trying to be too cool to use them. Not fun.

Baking Brilliance: step-by-step

Here's the super easy part. Making healthy salmon with quinoa recipe with a few steps!

1. Cook quinoa with 1 cup water and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 15 minutes .
2. Mix 1 tbsp olive oil , 1 tbsp lemon juice , zest, garlic, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place 2 (6-ounce/170g each) salmon fillets on baking sheet.
4. Brush salmon with lemon herb mixture.
5. Toss asparagus with 1 tbsp olive oil , salt, and pepper. Add asparagus to the sheet.
6. Bake for 12- 15 minutes . Salmon should reach 145° F ( 63° C) .
7. Serve: Quinoa, salmon, and asparagus on a plate.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should look opaque, not translucent.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Baking Game

Want to be a baking boss? Here's how. Don't overcook the salmon! Nobody likes dry fish. Rinse the quinoa well.

This gets rid of any weird bitterness. It's the secret to a healthy salmon recipes !

A common mistake? Forgetting the lemon zest! It adds so much flavour. Want to make this ahead? Marinate the salmon in the morning and then bake it later.

Hello, quick high protein recipes for any high protein lunch ideas or even a high protein low carb meals !

Baking can be simple, but knowing your oven is essential. Whether it's a baked fish recipes healthy or roasting some veggies. Keep in mind that every oven is slightly different.

Recipe Notes: Your Guide to Salmon Perfection

Let's chat about making this Lemon Herb Baked Salmon the star of your dinner table. Honestly, this recipe for one of the easy high protein meals is pretty foolproof.

But, I have a few nuggets of wisdom to share, stuff I've picked up along the way. It’s not your run-of-the-mill baked fish recipes healthy , its next level!

Serving Suggestions: Dress to Impress

Presentation matters, right? For a restaurant worthy plating, arrange the salmon with quinoa recipe and Roasted Asparagus artfully on the plate.

I like to add a lemon wedge for that extra pop of colour. A dollop of Greek yogurt? Divine! A crisp glass of white wine makes it extra special.

It turns high protein dinner ideas into a celebratory experience.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Leftover salmon ? Lucky you! Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container. It'll be good for up to 3 days .

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the salmon might change a bit. If freezing, use it in salmon cakes or salads.

For reheating, I suggest a low oven to keep it moist - about 275° F ( 135° C) .

Variations: Make it Your Own

Got dietary needs? No worries! For a high protein low carb meals , skip the quinoa and load up on extra veggies.

If you're gluten-free, just double check your herbs and seasonings are certified gluten-free. This easy high protein meal is flexible! Switch out the asparagus for green beans when asparagus isn't in season, or for a change.

I like to add cherry tomatoes. Talk about quick high protein lunch ideas !

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food

This meal is a winner. It's packed with about 45g of protein per serving. Salmon is also loaded with healthy fats.

The asparagus provides fibre, and quinoa adds a complete protein source too. It is one of the healthy salmon recipes you can indulge in without guilt!

So there you have it! You now have all the tips and tricks to make this lemon herb baked salmon dish.

And remember, cooking should be fun! Don't be afraid to experiment. You got this! These Quick High Protein Recipes are just the start!