Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Harissa Salmon Quinoa Bowls are a vibrant, flavorful fusion of sweet heat and wholesome goodness. Tender salmon glazed with spicy harissa and sweet honey sits atop fluffy quinoa, paired with fresh veggies and creamy avocado. These bowls are perfect for meal prep, healthy dinners, or a satisfying lunch that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletsharissa pastehoneyolive oilsalt and pepperquinoawater or broth (for cooking quinoa)cucumber (diced)cherry tomatoes (halved)red onion (thinly sliced)avocado (sliced)fresh parsley or mint (for garnish)lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix harissa paste, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.

Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the honey harissa glaze.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

While the salmon bakes, rinse quinoa and cook it according to package instructions using water or broth for extra flavor. Fluff with a fork when done.

Prepare the bowl toppings: dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, slice red onion, and slice avocado.

Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa among bowls, topping with vegetables, and placing a salmon fillet on each.

Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 bowls.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use couscous, farro, or brown rice instead of quinoa.

Add a dollop of hummus or tzatziki for extra creaminess.

Swap in grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein.

Toss the veggies with lemon juice and olive oil for a quick salad base.

Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added richness.

Mix harissa with Greek yogurt for a milder glaze.

storage/reheating

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat salmon and quinoa gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water for moisture.Keep fresh veggies and avocado separate until ready to serve for best texture and freshness.

FAQs

What is harissa?

Harissa is a North African chili paste made from peppers, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It’s flavorful and slightly spicy.

Can I grill the salmon?

Yes, grilling adds great flavor—just brush with glaze and cook over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild to medium heat depending on your harissa. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Store each element separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw completely before glazing and baking.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and high in protein.

What veggies work best?

Cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado add freshness, but you can also use bell peppers, shredded carrots, or greens.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese or yogurt-based sauces.

What’s a good harissa substitute?

You can mix chili flakes, smoked paprika, garlic, and olive oil as a quick alternative.

How do I know the salmon is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork—internal temp should be 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Honey Harissa Salmon Quinoa Bowls bring together bold flavor, balanced nutrition, and vibrant color in one easy-to-make meal. Perfect for any season, these bowls are customizable, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your healthy meal rotation. Sweet, spicy, fresh, and filling—what more could you ask for in a bowl?