Looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your salmon dinner? Look no further! Our "Easy Side Dishes for Salmon" recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the vibrant crunch of sautéed green beans, all brightened up with a zesty lemon twist. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a stunning and nutritious accompaniment that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to steal the show. Dive into our simple yet delicious recipe and discover how easy it is to create a culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Various
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and becomes fluffy.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the green beans by washing them and trimming off the tough ends.
- Heat olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become bright green and slightly tender.
- Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest for added brightness.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to absorb any remaining moisture.
- Transfer the quinoa to a serving dish, arrange the sautéed green beans on top, and serve immediately as a delicious side dish for salmon.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste.
- Use Vegetable Broth: For added flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking quinoa. It enhances the overall taste of the dish and pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Perfectly Cooked Green Beans: To achieve that bright green color and crunchy texture, avoid overcooking the green beans. Sauté them just until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add Extra Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional seasonings. A sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to your green beans.
- Serving Suggestions: For a beautiful presentation, serve the quinoa in a bowl, topped with the sautéed green beans and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the quinoa in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
- Pair with Your Favorite Salmon Recipe: This side dish complements a variety of salmon preparations, from grilled to baked, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
