Name: Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 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; 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

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Introduction

This herbed pearl couscous paired with perfectly baked salmon makes a flavorful and healthy meal that’s simple to prepare. The fresh herbs and lemon brighten the dish, while the couscous offers a satisfying, chewy texture alongside the tender fish.

A white bowl contains a dish with two main layers; the bottom layer is small, round, pale yellow couscous mixed with chopped green herbs and small orange carrot pieces. On top of this is a grilled salmon fillet with a golden brown, slightly crispy skin and pinkish-orange flesh. The salmon is sprinkled with chopped green herbs and garnished with some couscous and herbs on top, creating a fresh and vibrant look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for salmon)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
1 lemon, sliced into wedges
1 cup pearl couscous
2 tablespoons olive oil (for couscous)
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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme.
Step 2: Place the salmon on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, pan-sear over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Step 3: While the salmon cooks, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Stir in the pearl couscous and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add broth, dried basil, and dried oregano, then bring to a boil.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until couscous is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Spoon the herbed couscous onto plates, top with salmon fillets, and garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 15-30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.
Swap fresh herbs like dill or cilantro depending on your preference for a different aromatic twist.
If you prefer a zestier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the couscous while it cooks.
Use quinoa or bulgur instead of pearl couscous for a gluten-free version.
Pan-searing the salmon with a crispy skin adds great texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover couscous and salmon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the couscous gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Warm the salmon in the oven at low heat or enjoy it cold in salads.

How to Serve

A cooked piece of salmon with a bright orange-pink color sits on top of a bed of small round couscous pearls. The salmon is topped with a green herb sauce that looks oily with chopped herbs scattered across the surface. The couscous pieces are light yellow and mixed with bits of green herbs and some small salmon pieces, creating a textured look. All of this is placed in a white bowl, resting on a white marbled surface, with a silver fork visible at the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I cook the salmon and couscous together on the stove?

While the couscous is best cooked on the stove, the salmon is typically baked or pan-seared separately for the best texture and flavor. Cooking them together may lead to uneven results.

What can I substitute for pearl couscous?

You can use regular couscous, quinoa, or bulgur wheat as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and note that the texture will differ slightly.