Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon Recipe
This Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon recipe combines perfectly baked salmon fillets with a flavorful herbed pearl couscous, infused with fresh parsley, basil, oregano, and bright lemon juice. It’s a wholesome, balanced meal rich in omega-3 fatty acids, aromatic herbs, and a satisfying base of chewy couscous, ideal for a healthy and elegant dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
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.
- Season the Salmon: Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme to infuse 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, you can pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side if you prefer.
- Serve with Lemon: Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
- 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. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the aroma.
- Simmer the Couscous: Stir in the pearl couscous and cook for 1-2 minutes, lightly toasting it. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with dried basil and dried oregano, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Couscous: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish the Couscous: Remove the pan from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste for a fresh and tangy flavor.
- Plate the Dish: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto serving plates and top each with a baked salmon fillet.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and serve immediately while the dish is hot and fragrant.
Notes
- You can substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Pan-searing the salmon offers a crispier exterior, while baking ensures a tender, even cook.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the dish lighter and vegetarian-friendly if preferred.
- Pearl couscous can be toasted lightly to enhance its nutty flavor before cooking.
- Store leftovers separately for best reheating results, keeping salmon and couscous apart.
Keywords: salmon recipe, pearl couscous, herbed couscous, baked salmon, healthy dinner, Mediterranean cuisine, omega-3 rich meal
