This Herbed Salmon with Pearl Couscous recipe is a wholesome and flavorful meal that combines rich, tender salmon with a fragrant herbed couscous, creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Herbed Salmon with Pearl Couscous

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the richness of salmon and the heartiness of pearl couscous, all complemented by fresh herbs, lemon, and a light broth. The combination of these ingredients delivers a satisfying, healthy, and flavorful meal. Plus, the dish is versatile—you can easily adjust the herbs and add extra veggies, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Salmon:

Preheat & Prepare – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Salmon – Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or thyme.
Bake the Salmon – Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, pan-sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Serve with Lemon – Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve with lemon wedges.

Prepare the Herbed Pearl Couscous:

Cook the Couscous – In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Simmer the Couscous – Stir in the pearl couscous and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Pour in the broth, dried basil, and dried oregano, and bring to a boil.
Cook the Couscous – Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the Couscous – Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

Plate the Dish – Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto plates and top with a salmon fillet.
Garnish & Enjoy – Garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges, if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Couscous – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the couscous for a subtle kick.
Mediterranean Flavor – Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers to the couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
Crispy Salmon – Pan-fry the salmon skin-side down to get a crispy skin that adds texture to the dish.
Quinoa Substitute – Swap out the couscous for quinoa for a gluten-free, protein-packed base.
Lemon Herb Salmon – Add extra lemon zest and fresh herbs like dill to the salmon for a citrusy burst of flavor.
Add Nuts – Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds make a great addition to the couscous for some crunch.
Roasted Veggies – Serve the salmon with roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
Couscous Salad – Let the couscous cool and toss with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for a refreshing salad version.
Smoked Salmon Version – Use smoked salmon for a more intense flavor if you prefer a cold version of the dish.
Coconut Couscous – Replace the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storing Leftovers – Store leftover salmon and couscous separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth.
Freezing the Salmon – If you want to freeze the cooked salmon, place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freezing the Couscous – The couscous can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

Yes, other firm fish like trout or cod can be used instead of salmon.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, the couscous can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for pearl couscous?

You can use regular couscous, quinoa, or rice as a substitute.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?

Absolutely! Grilling the salmon adds a smoky flavor that complements the fresh herbs beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you substitute quinoa or rice for couscous.

Can I add more vegetables to the couscous?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the couscous for extra flavor and texture.

Can I pan-sear the salmon instead of baking it?

Yes, pan-searing the salmon works well. Just be sure to cook each side for 4-5 minutes over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through.

How can I make the couscous creamier?

Try substituting the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a creamy, rich twist.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, dried herbs will work in place of fresh ones. Use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

This Herbed Salmon with Pearl Couscous is a fantastic meal that combines fresh, healthy ingredients with bold flavors. The tender salmon pairs perfectly with the savory couscous, making it a meal that is sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

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Herbed Salmon with Pearl Couscous

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients