July 10, 2026 · 10 min

Za’Atar Salmon and Butternut Squash Grain Bowl with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette

Lunch10 min2726 cal / serving

This hearty grain bowl brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash and onion with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and honey. Fresh spinach adds a pop of green, while crumbled feta cheese provides a creamy, salty finish. The star of the show is the perfectly cooked salmon, seasoned with aromatic za’atar spice.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner, this bowl is packed with protein, fiber and vibrant flavors. The lemon honey vinaigrette ties everything together, making each bite a delightful balance of savory and sweet. It’s a wholesome meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Recipe details

Lunch10 min2726 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2726 kcalProtein37.4 gFat270.5 gCarbs47.2 gSugar30.8 gFiber4.3 gSodium840 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: containsShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: containsMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.

Ingredients

Feta Cheese0.5 cup Feta CheeseView ingredient guide
Onion1 unit OnionView ingredient guide
Spinach5 ounce SpinachView ingredient guide
Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Butternut Squash8 ounce Butternut SquashView ingredient guide
Honey2 teaspoon HoneyView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Salmon10 ounce SalmonView ingredient guide
Za'atar Spice1 tablespoon Za'atar SpiceView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Sugar0.25 teaspoon (tsp) SugarView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil1 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust rack to top position and preheat oven to 425°F. Wash and dry produce. Halve, peel and cut onion into ½-inch-thick wedges. Quarter lemon.
  2. Toss onion and butternut squash on a baking sheet with a drizzle of oil, Za’atar Spice, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Roast on top rack until browned and tender, 20-25 minutes. When veggies have 5 minutes remaining, massage grain blend in package to separate grains; partially open package. Microwave until warmed through, 90 seconds.
  3. In a large bowl, combine honey, 2 TBSP olive oil, ½ tsp sugar, juice from half the lemon, a splash of water and a pinch of salt (4 TBSP olive oil and 1 tsp sugar for 4 servings). Whisk until thickened and thoroughly combined. Once veggies are done, transfer to bowl with dressing. Add spinach, grains and half the feta. Toss to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Divide salad between shallow bowls. Sprinkle with remaining feta and serve with remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, toast the grain blend in a dry skillet before microwaving.

If you prefer your salmon well-done, cook it separately in a pan until flaky.

FAQ

Can I use a different grain instead of the microwavable blend?

Yes, any cooked grain like quinoa, brown rice or farro works well.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the salmon and add extra feta or chickpeas for protein.

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