Description
Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon is a fresh, balanced meal featuring tender baked salmon served over fluffy pearl couscous infused with herbs, garlic, and bright lemon flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 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
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme.
3. Place the salmon on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, pan-sear over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon and set aside.
5. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
6. Stir in the pearl couscous and toast for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed.
8. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto plates and top with a salmon fillet.
10. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispiness, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
You can substitute quinoa or orzo for pearl couscous if preferred.
Use fresh herbs for even brighter flavor.
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg