Name: Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 cup pearl couscous; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1.5 cups water or broth for cooking couscous

This Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon dish is a light yet satisfying meal that’s full of fresh herbs, tender salmon, and the nutty chew of pearl couscous. It’s one of those recipes I like to turn to when I want something wholesome and quick without sacrificing flavor. It comes together beautifully, and the herbs bring everything to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and fresh. The pearl couscous gives a delightful texture and holds up nicely against the flaky salmon. The combination of herbs adds a burst of color and brightness. It’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for a cozy dinner or a make-ahead lunch. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets
Pearl couscous
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley
Fresh dill
Fresh mint
Garlic
Salt
Black pepper
Water or broth for cooking couscous

Directions

I start by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Then I pan-sear or bake them until they’re cooked through and flaky.
While the salmon is cooking, I prepare the pearl couscous. I toast it lightly in a bit of olive oil, then simmer it in water or broth until it’s tender.
Once the couscous is ready, I stir in minced garlic and a generous amount of chopped fresh herbs—parsley, dill, and mint.
I finish it with a good squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil to tie everything together.
To serve, I flake the salmon over a bed of herbed couscous and garnish with extra herbs and a wedge of lemon, if I have it.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the salmon for grilled chicken or tofu when I want a different protein.
Adding cherry tomatoes or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers gives extra flavor and color.
For a touch of spice, I like to sprinkle in a bit of red pepper flakes or add a spoonful of harissa.
If I’m in the mood for a Mediterranean twist, I’ll toss in crumbled feta cheese or olives.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm the couscous and salmon in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. It also tastes great cold, straight from the fridge, making it a nice option for packed lunches.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

I check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. If I’m unsure, I use a thermometer—145°F is the safe internal temperature.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

I can, but fresh herbs really make this dish shine. If using dried, I use about one-third the amount and add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavor to develop.

What is the difference between pearl couscous and regular couscous?

Pearl couscous, also called Israeli couscous, is larger and has a chewier, pasta-like texture. Regular couscous is much finer and cooks faster.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the couscous and salmon in advance and assemble just before serving. It holds up well and even improves as the flavors meld.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like to serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. It’s also delicious with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a light cucumber salad on the side.

Conclusion

Herbed Pearl Couscous and Salmon is one of those go-to meals I turn to when I want something that feels fresh, nourishing, and easy to put together. The combination of tender fish, chewy couscous, and fragrant herbs makes every bite satisfying. Whether I’m serving it hot for dinner or packing it for a chilled lunch, it always delivers.