Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon Recipe
This delightful Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon recipe combines perfectly baked salmon fillets with a flavorful, aromatic pearl couscous infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon. A wholesome, elegant dish rich in omega-3s and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
For the Herbed Pearl Couscous:
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon fillets.
- Season the Salmon: Rub the salmon fillets evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season them with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme for aromatic flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, pan-sear in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for a crispy finish.
- Serve with Lemon: Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve alongside lemon wedges for an added zesty contrast.
- Cook the Couscous: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Simmer the Couscous: Stir in 1 cup pearl couscous and toast for 1-2 minutes. Pour in 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth along with 1 teaspoon dried basil and 1 teaspoon dried oregano, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Couscous: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the couscous is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Couscous: Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste for vibrant flavor and freshness.
- Plate the Dish: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto serving plates and place a baked salmon fillet on top.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired, then serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a crispier salmon skin, pat the skin dry before seasoning and cooking.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, use chicken broth for the couscous instead of vegetable broth.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted or combined with dried herbs according to preference.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute pearl couscous with a gluten-free grain like quinoa.
- Leftover salmon and couscous can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with couscous (~300g)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: salmon recipe, pearl couscous, herbed couscous, baked salmon, healthy dinner, Mediterranean dish, omega-3 rich, easy salmon meal
Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/herbed-pearl-couscous-and-salmon-recipe/
