Herbed Pearl Couscous with Baked Salmon Recipe
This delicious Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon recipe features perfectly baked salmon fillets seasoned with oregano and lemon, served atop fluffy, flavorful pearl couscous infused with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano. A wholesome, vibrant dish offering a perfect balance of rich omega-3 salmon and aromatic couscous, ideal for a healthy family dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
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 Salmon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and retains moisture.
- Season the Salmon: Rub each salmon fillet with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme to infuse herbal flavors into the fish.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Alternatively Pan-Sear Salmon: For a crispy exterior, pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Finish the Salmon: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets for brightness and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release aroma.
- Toast the Couscous: Add pearl couscous to the saucepan and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Simmer the Couscous: Pour in the broth along with dried basil and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
- Finish the Couscous: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste for a fragrant, bright finish.
- Plate and Serve: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto plates and top each serving with a salmon fillet. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges as desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for cooking.
- Using fresh herbs in place of dried will enhance the freshness and aroma of the couscous.
- You can swap vegetable broth with chicken broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Ensure the salmon is not overcooked by checking for flakiness with a fork to maintain its moist texture.
- Leftover couscous can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keywords: salmon recipe, pearl couscous, herbed couscous, baked salmon, healthy dinner, Mediterranean diet, lemon herb salmon
