Salmon Souvlaki Bowls

Salmon Souvlaki Bowls are a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings together tender marinated salmon, hearty grains, grilled vegetables, and a creamy avocado tzatziki. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, offering a nutritious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
• Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Perfect for meal prep and customizable
• Bursting with Mediterranean flavor

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon Marinade:

• Fresh salmon fillets, cut into portions
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Smoked paprika
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Fresh oregano, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Bowls:

• Pearl couscous or farro
• Red bell peppers, quartered
• Zucchini, sliced
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Persian cucumbers, sliced
• Kalamata olives
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Lemon juice

For the Avocado Tzatziki:

• Plain full-fat Greek yogurt
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Ripe avocado, diced
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Marinate the Salmon:
   Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the salmon and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Cook the Grains:
   Prepare pearl couscous or farro according to the package directions. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Toss bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill Salmon and Vegetables:
   Grill the salmon for about 3 minutes per side, until cooked through. Grill the vegetables until tender and lightly charred.
5. Make the Avocado Tzatziki:
   Stir together Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, olive oil, and lemon juice. Fold in avocado and crushed red pepper just before serving.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
   Divide the cooked grains into bowls. Top with grilled vegetables, salmon, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta. Add a dollop of tzatziki on top and finish with lemon juice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use quinoa or brown rice instead of couscous
• Substitute chicken or tofu for salmon
• Add other vegetables like eggplant or spinach
• Use a dairy-free yogurt to make it lactose-free
• Add spice with cayenne or extra red pepper flakes

Storage/Reheating

• Store ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days
• Reheat grains and salmon gently in the microwave or stovetop
• Add fresh vegetables and tzatziki after reheating for best texture

FAQs

What is souvlaki?

Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish made with grilled skewered meat, but in this bowl version, it’s adapted with marinated grilled salmon served over grains.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh for similar flavor intensity.

Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Is full-fat Greek yogurt necessary?

It’s recommended for creaminess, but low-fat or dairy-free alternatives work too.

Can this be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare all components ahead and assemble the bowl just before serving.

What grains work best?

Pearl couscous and farro are ideal, but quinoa or bulgur are great alternatives.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, replace salmon with tofu or chickpeas and use plant-based yogurt and cheese.

How long can I store leftovers?

Up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in airtight containers.

What other sauces can I use?

You can try tahini sauce, hummus, or lemon herb vinaigrette as alternatives.

Does the avocado in the tzatziki turn brown?

It may slightly oxidize. To prevent browning, add the avocado just before serving.

Conclusion

Salmon Souvlaki Bowls are a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal choice that can be prepared quickly and tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a meal prep staple, this recipe delivers both nutrition and taste in every bite.

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