Description
This Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon recipe pairs perfectly seared salmon fillets with fluffy, flavorful pearl couscous infused with garlic, thyme, and fresh herbs. It’s an easy, nutritious meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, combining Mediterranean-inspired flavors and healthy cooking techniques to deliver a satisfying protein and grain dish.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
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: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and lemon zest if using. Set aside to let the flavors penetrate.
- Cook the Pearl Couscous: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the pearl couscous and toast it lightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth and add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until couscous is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Cook the Salmon: While couscous cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish the Couscous: Once couscous is done, fluff with a fork and stir in freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice for brightness.
- Plate and Serve: Divide the couscous between two plates and top each with a cooked salmon fillet. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with water, but broth adds more flavor to the couscous.
- Salmon can also be cooked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes if preferred.
- For a dairy-free and gluten-free meal, this recipe is naturally compliant.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
