Harissa Salmon and Citrus Quinoa Bowls for Metabolic Glow

Recipe Snapshot

• Ready in 35 minutes with under 10 ingredients and one saucepan plus skillet.
• 32 grams protein, 6 grams fiber, and rich omega-3 fats to support cardiometabolic health.
• Meal-prep friendly; leftovers reheat well for two days.

Ingredients

Salmon and Glaze

• 4 (5-ounce) wild salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or date syrup
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Citrus Quinoa Base

• 1 cup tri-color quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 orange and 1 grapefruit, segmented
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint and parsley
• 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook quinoa: Combine quinoa and broth in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 15 minutes. Remove from heat, fluff, and let steam 5 minutes.
2. Make glaze: Whisk harissa, olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, garlic, and lemon zest. Pat salmon dry, brush with glaze, and season with salt.
3. Sear salmon: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Sear salmon 3 minutes skin-side down, flip, then cook 2 to 3 minutes until medium-rare.
4. Assemble bowls: Toss quinoa with citrus segments, cucumber, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Divide among bowls, top with salmon, drizzle remaining glaze, and finish with toasted almonds.

Why it works

Harissa brings capsicum heat that pairs with omega-3 rich salmon to support heart health. Citrus segments deliver vitamin C for collagen synthesis while herbs and almonds add polyphenols. Quinoa offers complete plant protein plus fiber for satiety.

Chef tips

• Alternate protein: Swap salmon for firm tofu or tempeh and sear the same way.
• Grill option: Brush salmon with glaze and grill over medium heat 4 minutes per side.
• Serving idea: Add shaved fennel or arugula for extra crunch.

Make it faster

Cook quinoa up to three days ahead. Portion glaze into a jar and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before using.

Nutrition focus

Pair this bowl with a leafy green side salad for additional folate and magnesium. For added complex carbs, stir in roasted sweet potato cubes.