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Mediterranean Salmon and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas

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Mediterranean Salmon and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas is a vibrant, wholesome dish featuring tender salmon fillets served over fluffy, citrusy rice with chickpeas, herbs, and Mediterranean spices. It’s light, filling, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup long grain or basmati rice
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (for rice)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub over salmon fillets and let marinate while preparing the rice.
  2. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  3. Stir in rice, lemon zest, and chickpeas. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat.
  4. Add broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. While rice cooks, sear salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve rice and chickpeas topped with salmon. Garnish with parsley or dill.

Notes

  • Use basmati or long grain rice for fluffiness; adjust liquid if using brown rice.
  • Add spinach, arugula, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Substitute salmon with grilled chicken, shrimp, or canned salmon for convenience.
  • Make it dairy-free and gluten-free by ensuring broth and seasonings are compliant.
  • Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/mediterranean-salmon-and-lemon-rice-with-chickpeas/