Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon

Sometimes, the simplest combinations are the most magical. Enter Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon—a dish that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. The nutty, chewy texture of pearl couscous pairs perfectly with the tender, flaky salmon, all topped off with a burst of fresh herbs that brighten up the whole plate. This meal is light but satisfying, with just the right balance of flavors and textures to make every bite feel special. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, trust me—this one’s going to be a hit. It’s healthy, it’s flavorful, and it’s so easy to whip up. What’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon

This dish has everything you need for a meal that’s both light and filling, and it’s perfect for any occasion:

• Quick & Easy: The whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes, so you can get a delicious meal on the table without the stress.
• Flavor-Packed: Fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and the perfectly seasoned salmon make every bite burst with flavor. You’re going to love the depth of taste in every forkful.
• Healthy & Satisfying: With a balanced combination of protein from the salmon and fiber from the couscous, it’s filling without being heavy. Plus, the herbs and lemon keep everything light and fresh.
• Impressive Yet Simple: The dish looks fancy, but it’s a breeze to make. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by switching up the herbs or adding in extra veggies. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Ingredients in Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed meal:

For the Couscous:

• Pearl Couscous: These small, round grains are a bit larger than regular couscous and have a satisfying, chewy texture that’s perfect for this dish.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the couscous and adding richness to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth to the couscous.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: The zest gives a punch of citrus fragrance, while the juice brightens everything up.
• Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley, basil, or thyme adds freshness and flavor to the couscous.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, to bring out all the other flavors.

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal for this dish, as they cook up tender and flaky.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle for cooking the salmon and adding richness.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: A simple seasoning mix to flavor the salmon.
• Lemon Slices: To top the salmon and give it a fresh, tangy finish.
• Salt & Pepper: To season the salmon perfectly.

(Note: The full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this flavorful dish:

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pearl couscous and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly toasted and golden. Add 2 cups of water (or broth for extra flavor), a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Salmon

While the couscous is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If you like, squeeze a little lemon juice over the salmon while it cooks for extra flavor.

Combine the Couscous & Salmon

Once the couscous is done, stir in the fresh herbs (like parsley, basil, or thyme) and lemon zest. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Divide the couscous between plates and top each serving with a salmon fillet. Garnish with lemon slices and an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve the Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon immediately, and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors and satisfying textures in each bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 480
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 240mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin D: 11µg
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 800mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some suggestions for pairing it with additional sides or accompaniments:

• Steamed Veggies: Pair with lightly steamed asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a burst of color and nutrients.
• Salad: A light, refreshing salad of mixed greens or arugula with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra juices or flavors from the couscous.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, roasted potatoes make a hearty side that complements the tender salmon and flavorful couscous.

Additional Tips

• Cooking the Salmon: If you prefer a different method of cooking, you can also bake the salmon in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or grill it for a smoky flavor.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to switch up the herbs based on what you have on hand. Dill or tarragon would be lovely additions if you’re craving different flavors.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the couscous or salmon for a subtle spicy kick.
• Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon might lose a bit of its flaky texture, but the couscous will still be delicious!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
A1: Yes, you can, but pearl couscous has a chewier, nuttier texture that adds more to the dish. Regular couscous will work too if you prefer.

Q2: Can I make this dish with a different type of fish?
A1: Absolutely! You can substitute the salmon with trout, cod, or even a firm white fish like halibut.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A1: Yes! Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers would complement the couscous and salmon beautifully.

Q5: Can I cook the salmon in the oven?
A1: Yes! Simply bake the salmon fillets at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they’re cooked through.

Q6: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A1: You can use dried herbs, but since they’re more concentrated, reduce the amount to about one-third of the fresh amount. Fresh herbs really brighten up this dish!

Q7: Can I prepare the couscous in advance?
A1: Yes, you can cook the couscous a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a little olive oil or broth before serving.

Q8: Is this dish gluten-free?
A1: No, pearl couscous is made from wheat. For a gluten-free version, try substituting quinoa, rice, or gluten-free pasta.

Q9: Can I add a creamy element to this dish?
A1: Yes, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of creamy tahini dressing would add richness to the meal.

Q10: How can I make this recipe lighter?
A1: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of olive oil and opt for grilled salmon instead of pan-seared.

Conclusion

Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon is the perfect balance of fresh, savory, and satisfying. It’s a quick, healthy meal that looks impressive but is so simple to make. The pearl couscous offers a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender, flavorful salmon, while the bright herbs and lemon keep everything fresh and vibrant. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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