Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful & Fresh – The fresh herbs, lemon, and savory salmon come together in a perfect balance, making every bite refreshing and fulfilling.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy nights without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Nutritious – Packed with protein from the salmon and fiber from the couscous, this dish is both filling and healthy.
Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite herbs, veggies, or even swap the protein if you prefer.
One-Pan Cooking – With minimal dishes to clean, this recipe makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

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

Ingredient Highlights:

Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, a heart-healthy choice.
Pearl Couscous – Larger and chewier than regular couscous, it offers a satisfying texture.
Fresh Herbs – Basil, parsley, and oregano add aromatic flavors that brighten the dish.
Lemon – A zesty contrast to the richness of the salmon and couscous.
Vegetable Broth – Adds depth and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Salmon:

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Salmon: Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme.
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, you can pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Serve with Lemon: Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve with lemon wedges.

Prepare the Herbed Pearl Couscous:

Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Simmer the Couscous: Stir in the pearl couscous and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Pour in the broth, dried basil, and dried oregano, and bring to a boil.
Cook the Couscous: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the Couscous: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

Plate the Dish: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto plates and top with a salmon fillet.
Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges, if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories

How to Serve

Family-Style: Serve the couscous and salmon together on a large platter for a casual, shared dining experience.
With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a complete meal.
On a Bed of Greens: Serve the couscous and salmon over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
With a Side of Garlic Bread: A crusty slice of garlic bread complements the couscous and salmon perfectly.
As a Salad: Combine the couscous and salmon with fresh salad greens and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.

Variations

Different Protein: If you prefer, you can swap the salmon for another protein such as chicken breast or shrimp.
Add Veggies: Add your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes to the couscous for added flavor and nutrition.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the salmon with roasted chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth for the couscous.
Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the couscous for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon and couscous in the microwave or heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth to the couscous if it needs moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I make the couscous ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the couscous ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a little broth or water when ready to serve.

2. Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?

Yes, you can substitute regular couscous for pearl couscous, but the texture will be different. Pearl couscous is chewier and heartier, making it a better match for this dish.

3. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking or searing.

4. How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I add more herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for added freshness.

6. Can I cook the salmon in a pan instead of the oven?

Yes, you can pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your couscous is gluten-free.

8. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add chili flakes or even a drizzle of sriracha sauce to add some heat.

9. How do I store the lemon wedges?

Store lemon wedges in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days. They’re perfect for garnishing your dish when serving.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the couscous, but the texture may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the couscous separately from the salmon.

Conclusion

Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon is a perfect balance of freshness and flavor. The rich salmon pairs beautifully with the herb-infused couscous, creating a nourishing, light meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this dish offers a flavorful, simple, and elegant solution. Try it today, and enjoy the harmony of fresh ingredients and bright flavors!

Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon: A Flavorful and Refreshing Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients