Herb Garlic Greek Salmon Bowls

This vibrant Greek salmon bowl brings together fresh Mediterranean flavors with perfectly cooked salmon for a nutrient-packed meal that's both satisfying and simple to prepare. The combination of tender salmon, fluffy quinoa, and bright veggies dressed in an herb-infused vinaigrette creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I first created this recipe when trying to recreate the flavors of my favorite Greek restaurant at home. My family was skeptical about salmon at first, but these bowls have become our go-to healthy dinner option that everyone eagerly anticipates.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet: Opt for wild-caught when possible for the best flavor and nutrition profile
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for the dressing to get that rich Mediterranean flavor
• Balsamic vinegar: The slight sweetness balances the acidity and adds depth
• Fresh herbs: Dill and parsley bring brightness that dried herbs simply cannot match
• Dried oregano: A classic Greek flavor that stands up well to the other ingredients
• Dijon mustard: Acts as an emulsifier for the dressing while adding subtle tang
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves provide aromatic foundation for the dressing
• Quinoa: Higher in protein than rice and offers a nutty flavor that complements the salmon
• Artichoke hearts: Their tender texture and mild flavor add substance to the bowl
• Grape tomatoes: Sweet bursts of acidity that balance the richness of the salmon
• English cucumber: Provides refreshing crunch and hydration without bitterness
• Assorted olives: Briny flavor bombs that add authentic Mediterranean character
• Red onion: Sharp bite that mellows slightly when dressed adds complexity
• Feta cheese: Creamy tanginess pulls everything together for an authentic Greek finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dressing:

Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh dill, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and seasoning in a mason jar. Shake vigorously until the mixture becomes unified and slightly thickened. The emulsification process creates a dressing that clings beautifully to all components of the bowl.

Prepare the Salmon:

Place the salmon fillet in a shallow baking dish and generously coat with about one third of the prepared dressing. Make sure to cover all surfaces to infuse maximum flavor into the fish. The marinade creates a flavor shield that keeps moisture locked in during cooking.

Cold Oven Technique:

Place the salmon in a cold oven, then set the temperature to 400 degrees. This gradual heating method allows the salmon to cook evenly throughout without drying out the edges. The salmon will need approximately 20 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork while maintaining a moist interior.

Cook the Quinoa:

Prepare quinoa according to package directions while the salmon bakes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to the refrigerator to cool slightly. Cooling prevents the quinoa from wilting the fresh vegetables when assembled.

Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooled quinoa among four bowls creating a base layer. Arrange artichoke hearts, halved tomatoes, cucumber slices, assorted olives, red onion slices, and crumbled feta cheese in sections around the bowl. This presentation allows each component to shine visually.

Finish and Serve:

Cut the baked salmon into four portions and place atop each bowl. Drizzle everything with the remaining dressing and garnish with additional fresh parsley. Add a dollop of Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce if desired for extra creaminess and tang.

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The first time I served these bowls at a family gathering, my salmon-skeptical nephew actually asked for seconds. The fresh herbs make all the difference in this recipe. I grow dill and parsley in my garden specifically for dishes like this where their bright flavor really shines against the rich salmon.

Make Ahead Options

These bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all components separately up to three days in advance. Store the salmon, quinoa, vegetables, and dressing in separate containers in the refrigerator. The dressing actually improves after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together. Simply assemble when ready to eat for a fresh tasting meal without any last-minute cooking.

Customization Ideas

This recipe welcomes substitutions based on your preferences or what you have available. Try swapping quinoa for brown rice or farro for different textures. Not a fan of salmon? This works beautifully with grilled chicken or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The vegetable components can shift seasonally too—try roasted red peppers in winter or fresh corn in summer.

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Serving Suggestions

For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve these bowls alongside warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki. A simple Greek salad makes a perfect starter. When entertaining, set up a build-your-own bowl bar with all components separated so guests can customize to their preferences. This interactive approach makes for a fun dinner party concept that accommodates various dietary needs.

The Mediterranean Connection

This dish embodies the heart of Mediterranean cooking philosophy—simple, fresh ingredients combined thoughtfully. The Greek diet has been studied extensively for its health benefits, particularly its emphasis on olive oil, seafood, and fresh vegetables. These bowls capture those nutritional principles while delivering authentic flavors that transport you to a seaside taverna.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the cold-start oven method for salmon?

The cold-start method involves placing the salmon in the oven before turning it on, then setting it to 400°F. This gentle heating technique helps the salmon cook evenly and retain moisture, resulting in perfectly tender fish every time.

→ Can I substitute the quinoa with another grain?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like brown rice, farro, or couscous. Each will provide a different texture but will work well with the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

→ How do I make the Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce?

While not detailed in the instructions, a typical Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce combines Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients in a small bowl and adjust to taste.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the quinoa and chop vegetables a day before. The dressing can be made 2-3 days in advance. For best results, bake the salmon fresh before serving.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

This is excellent for meal prep. Assemble the bowls without the dressing and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate and add just before eating. The salmon can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer not to use feta, you can substitute with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or use dairy-free alternatives like tofu-based feta. You could also omit the cheese entirely if desired.