Description

This Pesto Salmon Chickpea Bowl is a delightful and wholesome meal that combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with crispy roasted chickpeas and a creamy pesto drizzle. Served with your choice of quinoa or rice and a bed of mixed greens, this bowl is not only nourishing but also packed with flavor, making it the perfect balance of nutrients and taste for any meal.

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets

1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional)

1 cup mixed greens (such as spinach or arugula)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
Roast the chickpeas for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.
While the chickpeas are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes.
In a large bowl, layer quinoa or rice, mixed greens, roasted chickpeas, and the cooked salmon fillets.
Drizzle pesto sauce over the top and garnish with lemon juice and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Vegan Version: Swap the salmon for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Ensure the pesto is vegan by using dairy-free cheese or skipping it altogether.

Grain-Free Option: Skip the quinoa or rice and serve the bowl over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Extra Veggies: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for more texture and flavor.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chickpeas for some heat, or drizzle sriracha over the bowl before serving for an extra kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main dish
Method: Roasting, Pan-searing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 60mg