If you’re looking for that perfect weeknight meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying, the Salmon & Chickpea Plate is your new best friend. This vibrant dish brings together flaky baked salmon, crispy roasted chickpeas, and a bounty of greens and veggies—all layered with flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a total celebration on a plate: colorful, protein-packed, and ready in under an hour. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or treating yourself to a gorgeous dinner, the Salmon & Chickpea Plate delivers big flavor with very little fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s brilliant about the Salmon & Chickpea Plate is its simplicity—each ingredient shines in its own way, and together they form a hearty yet light dish you’ll crave. Let’s take a look at why every component matters.
- Baked salmon: This is the star of the show, offering rich, moist protein with a mild taste and spectacular color.
- Fresh spinach: A handful of tender spinach brings a pop of green and a base that balances the heartier ingredients.
- Steamed broccoli: Slightly tender and oh-so-flavorful, broccoli adds texture and nutritional punch.
- Avocado: Creamy, buttery avocado lends healthy fats and a cooling contrast to the crispier elements.
- Roasted chickpeas: These add crunch and a rustic, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the salmon.
- Grated parmesan: Totally optional, but just a sprinkle takes the dish over the top with an umami kick.
- Salt, pepper, olive oil: The essentials—these bring everything together and enhance every bite.
How to Make Salmon & Chickpea Plate
Step 1: Bake the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange your salmon fillet on a lined baking tray, drizzle it with good olive oil, and sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper. Slide it into the oven, and let it bake for about 12–15 minutes, until it’s just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The salmon should be tender and juicy with a slight crisp on top—absolute perfection for your Salmon & Chickpea Plate.
Step 2: Roast the Chickpeas
While the salmon is baking, toss your cooked (and thoroughly dried) chickpeas with a glug of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dusting of paprika for warmth. Spread them out on a separate baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crunchy. These golden nuggets bring a delicious bite and protein boost to the Salmon & Chickpea Plate.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
Cut your broccoli into bite-size florets and steam them just until bright green and fork-tender, around 4–5 minutes. Steaming keeps them vibrant and fresh, locking in both nutrients and flavor—a key supporting role on your plate.
Step 4: Assemble the Plate
Now for the fun part: building your Salmon & Chickpea Plate! Start with a nest of fresh spinach at the base. Add your steamed broccoli to one side, fan out avocado slices for creaminess, and pile the crispy roasted chickpeas right alongside. Top everything with your perfectly baked salmon fillet, creating a composed plate that’s as gorgeous as it is satisfying.
Step 5: Sprinkle Parmesan and Season
If you’re in the mood for extra richness, a tablespoon of grated parmesan scattered over the top is pure magic. Finish with another drizzle of olive oil, and maybe one final twist of pepper. By now the aroma is irresistible, and you’re moments away from your first bite.
How to Serve Salmon & Chickpea Plate
Garnishes
If you like a burst of flavor, try a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs (think dill or parsley), or even a hint of chili flakes. The parmesan is already a lovely touch, but you can also add toasted seeds for extra crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
The Salmon & Chickpea Plate is quite filling on its own, but a slice of warm crusty bread or a scoop of herby quinoa on the side is perfect for soaking up any extra olive oil and juices. Pair with a light white wine or your favorite sparkling water with citrus for a little added refreshment.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Try layering everything in a bowl for a cozy “nourish bowl” vibe, or arrange the ingredients artfully on a platter if you want to impress guests. You can even make mini versions in small bowls for a buffet or brunch. The colors and textures of the Salmon & Chickpea Plate really pop however you serve it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any extra Salmon & Chickpea Plate components, store each part separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the spinach fresh and the chickpeas crunchy, while ensuring the salmon and broccoli maintain their texture. It’ll be just as delightful for lunch the next day!
Freezing
While you can freeze baked salmon and roasted chickpeas, they lose some of their best qualities after thawing. If you do wish to freeze, wrap just the salmon tightly and place in the freezer for up to one month. The greens and avocado are best enjoyed fresh, so whip those up the day of serving.
Reheating
To reheat salmon, cover it with foil and warm it gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. For chickpeas, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Broccoli can be quickly warmed in the microwave or with a splash of water in a skillet.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for the Salmon & Chickpea Plate?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or just love the convenience, canned salmon works nicely. Drain it well, flake it onto the plate, and add a squeeze of lemon for freshness. Just note you’ll lose a bit of that roasted flavor that comes from baking your own fillet.
What other greens can I swap for spinach?
Feel free to experiment! Arugula, baby kale, or even massaged kale all make great alternatives to spinach in this dish. Each brings its own flavor and texture, so use what you love or have on hand.
How else can I season the roasted chickpeas?
Paprika is a classic, but you can mix it up with cumin, curry powder, garlic powder, or a pinch of cayenne for heat. The Salmon & Chickpea Plate is wonderfully flexible, so make it your own!
Can I make the chickpeas ahead of time?
Yes! Roasted chickpeas keep well at room temperature for a couple of days. Store them in an airtight container and add to your Salmon & Chickpea Plate just before serving to keep them nice and crunchy.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It sure is! Every component of the Salmon & Chickpea Plate is naturally gluten-free, making it a delicious option for anyone with gluten sensitivities or for when you’re hosting a crowd with mixed dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
The Salmon & Chickpea Plate is a weeknight game-changer: colorful, wholesome, and packed with flavor. If you’re ready to fall in love with your dinner routine again, give this recipe a try—one simple plate, endless possibilities, and so much satisfaction in every bite!
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