Ingredients
For the Pomegranate Glazed Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pomegranate seeds (arils) for garnish
For the Quinoa Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
For the Pomegranate Glazed Salmon:
- In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the mixture is reduced by half and slightly thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets, skin side down, for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Transfer the salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Brush generously with the pomegranate glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds before serving.
For the Quinoa Salad:
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, mint, and pomegranate seeds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 15g
Tips and Variations
- Variation: Substitute salmon with chicken breasts for a different protein option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Tip: For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon in the pomegranate glaze for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Tip: Use a mix of red and white quinoa for added visual appeal.