Description

A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired main course featuring seared salmon served over herbed pearl couscous. The couscous is cooked to perfection and mixed with fresh dill, parsley, chives, lemon zest, and butter for a fragrant and satisfying side, complemented by optional fresh vegetables or feta for added texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the Couscous

1 cup pearl couscous (also called Israeli couscous)
1 ½ cups water or chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Zest of ½ lemon
Salt, to taste

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Optional Toppings

Baby spinach
Cherry tomatoes
Feta cheese

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Instructions

Season the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets generously with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is crisp. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Cook the Pearl Couscous: In a saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Prepare the Herbed Couscous: Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork, then stir in butter, fresh dill, parsley, chives, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt for added aroma and flavor.
Assemble and Serve: Serve the seared salmon fillets on a bed of the herbed pearl couscous. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and optional toppings such as sautéed baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese for additional freshness and texture.

Notes

This light yet satisfying dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Feel free to swap the fresh herbs with alternatives such as basil or tarragon to vary the flavor profile.
Adding optional toppings like sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or feta can provide extra nutrients and make the dish more colorful and appealing.