Salmon & Quinoa Street Tacos

Brain-boosting fats • Protein-packed • Street food freshness

Transform your kitchen into a vibrant street food market with these nutritious mini tacos that combine heart-healthy salmon with protein-rich quinoa and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive weekend lunch that will nourish both body and mind.

What You'll Need

Step-by-Step Instructions

These mini tacos come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The following steps will guide you through creating these delicious tacos that combine the omega-rich goodness of salmon with the nutty flavor of quinoa and the creaminess of avocado.

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures better browning.

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder (or smoked paprika for a milder flavor), cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over both sides of the salmon and add a squeeze of lime juice.

Allow the salmon to marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature while you prep the other ingredients. This brief marination time infuses the fish with flavor without breaking down its delicate texture.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Step 3: Make the Quinoa Tabbouleh

In a medium bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the finely chopped tomato, red onion (or milder spring onion), and fresh herbs. Traditional tabbouleh uses parsley, but coriander (cilantro) works beautifully with these tacos.

Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The tabbouleh should be bright and zesty – don't be shy with the lemon juice!

Give everything a good toss and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld while you cook the salmon.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Heat Skillet

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add a small drizzle of olive oil if needed.

Cook Salmon

Place salmon skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until just cooked through.

Rest & Flake

Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Using two forks, gently flake the salmon into large, bite-sized chunks.

Perfectly cooked salmon should be slightly translucent in the center – it will continue cooking slightly after removal from heat. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Properly warming tortillas is a crucial step that's often overlooked. It makes them pliable, enhances their flavor, and prevents them from breaking when filled.

Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place each mini tortilla on the hot surface for about 30 seconds per side until they develop small golden spots and become aromatic.

Stack the warmed tortillas and wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft until serving time. This creates a pocket of steam that keeps them perfectly pliable.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Layer 1: Quinoa Base

Spread a spoonful of quinoa tabbouleh on each warm tortilla as your first layer. The quinoa adds a nutritious base with a pleasant texture and absorbs the salmon juices.

Layer 2: Salmon

Add several chunks of your flaked salmon, distributing evenly so each bite contains some of the flavorful fish. The salmon should be the star ingredient.

Layer 3: Avocado

Top with either sliced avocado or a dollop of smashed avocado for creaminess. The healthy fats complement the salmon beautifully.

Layer 4: Greens & Garnishes

Finish with baby spinach or peppery rocket leaves, then add optional toppings like a drizzle of Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Serve Street-Style

Arrange your freshly assembled tacos on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with extra lime wedges and sprigs of fresh herbs for both flavor and presentation.

Serve immediately while everything is at its peak freshness. These tacos are meant to be eaten with your hands, just like authentic street food, so have napkins ready!

Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced green tea or sparkling water with cucumber slices for a complete meal that's as nourishing as it is delicious.

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Salmon and Quinoa Street Tacos