Description
A flavorful and healthy dish featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets served over a bed of herbed pearl couscous, infused with garlic, thyme, and fresh parsley, making a quick and nutritious meal perfect for any weeknight.
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)
Herbed 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 with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and lemon zest if using.
- Cook the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the pearl couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and liquid is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: While couscous cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add dried thyme and paprika, stirring for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
- Combine couscous and herbs: Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and stir in the sautéed garlic and spices, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate and serve: Spoon the herbed pearl couscous onto plates and place the cooked salmon fillets on top. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the couscous while cooking.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or basil as an alternative to parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth or water.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
