Salmon and Couscous Bowl Recipe

Looking for a fresh and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and textures? This Salmon and Couscous Bowl is a winner! With perfectly seared salmon on top of a bed of fluffy couscous, complemented by a medley of vibrant veggies, this dish brings together the best of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors in every bite. The couscous provides a light, nutty base while the salmon adds richness and depth. Whether you’re meal-prepping or looking to enjoy a quick, wholesome dinner, this bowl is both nutritious and absolutely delicious. Trust me, you’ll want this on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Salmon and Couscous Bowl

Flavorful & Balanced: The lightness of couscous pairs so well with the rich salmon, while the veggies add crunch and brightness, creating a perfectly balanced meal.

Quick & Easy: You can have this entire bowl ready in about 30 minutes. No need to stress—this meal is simple, yet full of flavor.

Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with heart-healthy salmon, fiber-rich couscous, and a variety of veggies, this bowl is an excellent source of protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients.

Customizable: Feel free to switch up the veggies or toppings! Whether you want to swap the couscous for quinoa or add a dollop of tzatziki, this bowl is easy to adapt to your personal tastes.

Meal Prep Friendly: This bowl is perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch of couscous and salmon, then top with your favorite veggies for a grab-and-go lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Salmon and Couscous Bowl:

For the Bowl:

• Salmon Fillets: The main star of the dish, cooked to perfection with a crispy, golden crust and flaky interior.
• Couscous: Fluffy and light, couscous makes the perfect base for the salmon and veggies.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and drizzling over the salmon for added richness.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the whole dish, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to both the couscous and salmon.
• Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber adds a great crunch to the bowl.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
• Avocado: Creamy and smooth, avocado brings richness and healthy fats.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color to the dish.

For the Dressing:

• Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang to the dressing.
• Olive Oil: For a smooth, rich base.
• Lemon Juice: Brings a tangy brightness that complements the salmon.
• Dijon Mustard: For a little zip and flavor.
• Honey: Just a touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, to ensure everything is perfectly seasoned.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your Salmon and Couscous Bowl:

Step 1: Cook the Couscous

In a medium pot, bring water (or broth for extra flavor) to a boil. Add the couscous, stir, and then remove from heat. Cover and let it steam for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon, skin-side down (if it has skin). Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your fillets, until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Veggies

While the salmon is cooking, chop your cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop some fresh parsley for garnish.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of couscous in each bowl. Arrange the salmon fillet on top, then add the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado around the edges. Drizzle with the creamy dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the bowls immediately, or store them in airtight containers for meal prep. Enjoy a delicious, fresh, and balanced meal!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 480
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 340mg
Total Carbohydrate: 37g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 37g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 25%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Salmon and Couscous Bowl

Grains: This bowl pairs perfectly with couscous, but you can also use quinoa, farro, or even rice as the base.

Extra Toppings: Add a handful of greens like spinach, arugula, or kale for added texture and nutrients.

Herbs and Spices: Feel free to sprinkle in extra herbs like dill or mint for a fresh twist, or add a dash of chili flakes if you like a little heat.

Side Dishes: Pair the bowl with a simple side of roasted vegetables, or a light green salad for a more filling meal.

Additional Tips

• Meal Prep: You can make a big batch of couscous and salmon and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls with fresh veggies each day.
• Grilled Salmon: If you prefer, grill the salmon for an extra smoky flavor instead of pan-searing it.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the dressing for an extra kick.
• Vegan Version: Swap the salmon for chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh to make this bowl vegan.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout, cod, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

Q2: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A1: Absolutely! Regular yogurt will work, though Greek yogurt offers a thicker, creamier texture. You can also use dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based version.

Q3: How can I make this bowl spicier?
A3: To add spice, drizzle some sriracha or chili garlic sauce on top or mix a bit of cayenne pepper into the dressing.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Yes! You can prepare the couscous, salmon, and dressing in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.

Q5: Can I use couscous from a box?
A5: Yes, boxed couscous works perfectly fine. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftover salmon and couscous separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add fresh veggies before serving.

Q7: What can I substitute for avocado?
A7: You can substitute avocado with hummus for creaminess or roasted sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

Q8: Can I use other vegetables in the bowl?
A8: Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as roasted carrots, bell peppers, or spinach.

Q9: How can I add more flavor to the couscous?
A9: Cook the couscous in vegetable broth or add some herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, or parsley for extra flavor.

Q10: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A10: Yes, couscous is made from wheat, but you can swap it for quinoa or rice to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Salmon and Couscous Bowl is the ultimate combination of light, nutritious, and satisfying. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch. Whether you’re craving something fresh or meal-prepping for the week, this bowl is versatile, customizable, and absolutely delicious. Make it your own, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!

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