Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa: A Healthy & Flavorful Recipe You’ll Love!
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal, Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa is the perfect choice! This dish combines tender, perfectly cooked salmon with a rich, savory teriyaki glaze, served alongside fluffy quinoa for a wholesome, protein-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling good about what you’re eating. 🌿💪
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 😍
- Tender salmon with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that’s perfect for any weeknight.
- Fluffy quinoa as a healthy, protein-packed side dish that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Made in the slow cooker – low-maintenance cooking that lets you spend time on other things while your meal prepares itself.
- Full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential vitamins to fuel your body.
- Quick prep and only a few ingredients needed! 🌱
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa 🛒
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, here’s what you’ll need to create this incredible dish:
For the Teriyaki Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 4-6 oz each) 🐟
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) 🍶
- 2 tablespoons honey 🍯
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 🍚
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil 🌾
- 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger) 🌿
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish) 🌾
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish) 🌱
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa 🍚
- 2 cups water 💧
How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa 🍳
Making this dish is easier than you might think! The slow cooker takes care of most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you there:
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce 🥣
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This combination of sweet, salty, and savory ingredients will make up the teriyaki sauce that coats the salmon and gives it its irresistible flavor. You can adjust the amount of honey or soy sauce based on your personal taste preferences.
Step 2: Place Salmon in the Slow Cooker 🍽️
Place your salmon fillets into the slow cooker, skin side down. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the fillets, ensuring that the fish is evenly coated. You can use a spoon to carefully spread the sauce over the fillets if needed. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: Cook the Quinoa 🍚
While your salmon is cooking away, it’s time to prepare the quinoa! Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 4: Serve the Dish 🍴
Once your salmon is cooked and the quinoa is ready, it’s time to plate! Serve a portion of quinoa on each plate, then place the teriyaki salmon fillets on top. Drizzle any leftover sauce from the slow cooker over the salmon and quinoa for extra flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and color.
Tips and Variations for This Recipe 💡
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick. 🌶️
- Add Veggies: For a more complete meal, serve the salmon and quinoa with a side of sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots. 🥦
- Use Frozen Salmon: You can use frozen salmon fillets if fresh isn’t available. Just add a little extra cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply divide the salmon and quinoa into containers, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days for an easy, healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week. 🍱
- Double the Sauce: If you like more sauce to coat the quinoa or drizzle over veggies, double the teriyaki sauce ingredients!
Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Salmon and Quinoa Together ❤️
Teriyaki Salmon is a flavorful and nutritious fish option, packed with omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health and reduce inflammation. The sweetness from the honey and the umami from the soy sauce create a harmonious glaze that pairs perfectly with the mild, flaky salmon.
On the other hand, quinoa is an excellent gluten-free alternative to rice or pasta, full of protein and fiber. It’s also a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that your body needs to stay healthy.
When combined, these two ingredients offer a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and nourishing! 🌟
Nutritional Information 🥗
Each serving of Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa provides:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving (depending on the size of the fillets)
- Protein: 35-40g (from salmon and quinoa)
- Fat: 15-18g (healthy fats from salmon and sesame oil)
- Carbohydrates: 30g (from quinoa)
- Fiber: 5g (from quinoa and vegetables)
- Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamin D, omega-3s, and iron.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Dinner for Busy Days 🌈
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply need an easy, hands-off recipe, this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or for when you want to prep a nutritious meal ahead of time. The combination of flavors, textures, and nutrients makes this dish an instant winner that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. 😋
Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful, stress-free dinner that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ready to Try This Recipe? 🍽️
Give it a go, and don’t forget to share your results with us! Tag us on social media with #SwirlyRecipes and let us know how your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Quinoa turned out. We love seeing your creations! 📸
