Description
Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon is a flavorful and wholesome dish featuring tender salmon paired with aromatic herbed couscous. It’s an easy-to-make, healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
For the Herbed Pearl Couscous:
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and lemon zest (if using).
Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Cook the pearl couscous:
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the pearl couscous and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess liquid if needed. - Prepare the herbed couscous:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cooked couscous to the skillet along with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes until the couscous is lightly toasted and fragrant.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice for added brightness. - Assemble the dish:
Divide the herbed couscous between plates, top with a salmon fillet, and garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute the pearl couscous with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.
- Add some roasted vegetables or a side salad to complete the meal.
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle the salmon with a little olive oil or a yogurt-based sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, North African, Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/2 of the recipe)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 60mg