Best PCOS Dinner Recipe for Weight Loss | PCOS Diet Plan

If you’re searching for a delicious PCOS-friendly recipe that supports hormone balance and weight loss, this Mediterranean grilled salmon is your answer. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and low-glycemic vegetables, this dish is perfect for anyone following a PCOS diet plan for weight loss in Pakistan or anywhere in the world. This anti-inflammatory meal helps manage insulin resistance while keeping you satisfied and energized, making it an essential addition to your PCOS 30-day meal plan or 7-day PCOS diet plan.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 425 calories

Ingredients

For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (150g or 5 oz each, wild-caught preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (30ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
The Quinoa:
  • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked (185g)
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (475ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
For the Roasted Vegetables:
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced (300g)
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips (150g)
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced (150g)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (200g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preparing the Quinoa:
  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer for 30 seconds to remove any bitter coating.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, turmeric, and cumin. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  4. After 15 minutes, remove from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and set aside.
The Vegetables:
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and broccoli).
  3. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This ensures proper roasting and caramelization.
  5. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred at the edges.
Preparing the Salmon:
  1. While the vegetables are roasting, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and lemon juice to create a marinade.
  3. Brush the marinade generously over both sides of each salmon fillet. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly spray with cooking spray.
  5. Place salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them to get a nice golden crust.
  6. Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) and the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The center should be slightly pink.

Plating and Serving:

  1. Divide the fluffy quinoa equally among four plates, creating a base layer.
  2. Arrange the colorful roasted vegetables beside the quinoa.
  3. Place one salmon fillet on top of or beside the quinoa on each plate.
  4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately while hot.

Expert Tips for Perfect PCOS-Friendly Salmon

Don’t Overcook the Salmon: The biggest mistake people make is overcooking salmon, which makes it dry. The fish should be slightly translucent in the center when you remove it from the heat, as it will continue cooking from residual heat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and aim for 63°C internal temperature.

Quality Matters for PCOS Benefits: Choose wild-caught salmon over farmed whenever possible. Wild salmon contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and lower levels of inflammatory omega-6 fats, which are crucial for managing PCOS symptoms and reducing inflammation.

Batch Cook for Your PCOS Meal Plan: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook all components on Sunday and store them separately. This makes it easy to follow your 7-day PCOS diet plan or PCOS weight loss in 1 month diet plan without daily cooking stress.

Balance Your Plate Using the 30-30-30 Rule:

For optimal PCOS management, aim for 30% protein, 30% healthy fats, and 30% complex carbohydrates with 10% non-starchy vegetables. This recipe naturally follows this principle, helping stabilize blood sugar and manage insulin resistance.

Delicious Variations

Pakistani-Inspired PCOS Version: Replace Mediterranean herbs with a Pakistani spice blend. Marinate the salmon in 1 tablespoon of yogurt mixed with 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric, and a pinch of garam masala. Serve with cauliflower rice instead of quinoa for a lower-carb option that’s perfect for your PCOS diet plan.

Vegetarian PCOS Alternative: Substitute salmon with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option. Press the tofu for 15 minutes, then marinate and cook using the same method. This variation is excellent for those following a vegetarian PCOS diet plan for weight loss while still getting adequate protein to manage hunger and blood sugar levels.

Storage and Reheating.

Refrigerator Storage: Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the salmon separate from the vegetables and quinoa to maintain optimal texture and prevent the fish from becoming too moist.

Freezer Storage: Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Quinoa freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the roasted vegetables as they become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating Instructions: For best results, reheat salmon in a 160°C (325°F) oven for 8-10 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying. Microwave quinoa with a splash of water for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Reheat vegetables in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to restore some crispness, or enjoy them cold in a salad.

Meal Prep Tip: This recipe is ideal for your PCOS 30-day meal plan. Prepare 2-3 servings at once and portion them into glass containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

🌸 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 30-30-30 rule for PCOS, and does this recipe follow it?
The 30-30-30 rule suggests eating 30g of protein within 30 minutes of waking up, followed by 30 minutes of low-intensity exercise.

This recipe is a perfect match! With approximately 35g of protein from salmon, it helps stabilize blood sugar and manages insulin—crucial for PCOS weight loss.
Should you eat fewer carbs if you have PCOS, and is quinoa a good choice?
Yes, reducing refined carbs is key, but you don’t need to cut them all out.

Quinoa is an excellent choice because it has a low Glycemic Index (53) and is a complete protein. This recipe provides 30g of complex carbs, which prevents insulin spikes and keeps you full longer.
How to lose 5kg in 1 month with PCOS using recipes like this?
Losing 5kg safely requires consistency:
  • Portion Control: This recipe is only 425 calories.
  • Deficit: Create a 500-750 daily calorie deficit.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Use this salmon meal 3-4 times a week.
Remember, a sustainable pace is 0.5-1kg per week. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a major plan.

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