Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon Recipe
This Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection alongside flavorful pearl couscous infused with fresh herbs and a bright lemon zest. A healthy, well-balanced dish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and aromatic Mediterranean flavors, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, 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 the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon fillets.
- Season the Salmon: Rub each salmon fillet with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme to infuse flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for a crispier texture.
- Serve with Lemon: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets and serve with lemon wedges for an added bright, zesty contrast.
- Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the Couscous: Stir in the pearl couscous and toast it for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with dried basil and dried oregano, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Couscous: Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish the Couscous: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste for fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Plate the Dish: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto serving plates and top with a salmon fillet.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For extra crisp salmon skin, pat the fillets dry before seasoning and sear skin-side down first.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option in the couscous.
- Pearl couscous can be substituted with regular couscous; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor but dried herbs are a convenient alternative if fresh are unavailable.
- Leftover couscous keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated with a splash of broth or water to moisten.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with couscous
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: herbed pearl couscous, baked salmon, salmon recipe, healthy dinner, Mediterranean cuisine, pearl couscous recipe, easy weeknight meal
