Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Global Recipes

When I first made this Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl, I was blown away by the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation. The combination of tender salmon paired with fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. I love how it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch. It's a dish that always gets compliments and brings joy to our table.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:45:28.132Z

Each time I make this dish, I am reminded of my summer adventures along the Mediterranean coast. The freshness of the ingredients, especially the herbs, makes all the difference. I experimented with various vegetables, and found that cherry tomatoes and cucumber brought a lovely crunch to the bowl that perfectly complemented the salmon.

Another tip I discovered is to let the couscous sit covered for a few minutes after cooking. This allows it to absorb the dressing fully, enriching the overall flavor. Trust me, this little step elevates the dish from good to unforgettable!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty flavors that brighten your day
Perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth
Colorful presentation that makes it a feast for the eyes

Choosing the Right Salmon

When preparing the Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl, opting for fresh, high-quality salmon is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Look for fillets with vibrant color and a moist appearance. If fresh is not available, frozen salmon is a great alternative; just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Also, consider whether you prefer skin-on or skinless fillets—a skin-on fillet can add extra flavor and moisture when cooked properly, creating a delightful contrast to the fluffy couscous.

Another point to consider is the thickness of your salmon fillets; thinner fillets will cook faster, roughly 4-6 minutes per side at medium heat, while thicker cuts will need closer to 6-8 minutes. To ensure even cooking, let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes prior to cooking. This will help it cook more evenly and reduce the risk of undercooked centers.

Perfecting the Couscous

Couscous is a wonderful base for this dish due to its light, fluffy texture, but it’s important to cook it correctly to avoid clumping. The boiling scheme mentioned in the recipe works wonders; the key is to let the couscous steam in the covered pot, which helps it absorb maximum moisture. For a bit of added flavor, consider toasting the couscous in the pot with a teaspoon of olive oil for a couple of minutes before adding the water or broth. This adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

If you have leftover couscous, it stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply sprinkle a bit of water on the couscous and microwave it until warmed through, ensuring it remains fluffy and fresh.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

2 salmon fillets
1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Couscous

In a pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, combine couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.

Top with Salmon

Place the cooked salmon fillet on top of the couscous mixture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, marinate the salmon in the dressing for 30 minutes before cooking.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables in your Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl. Adding some sliced bell peppers, radishes, or olives can enhance the flavors and textures, providing a pop of color and additional nutrients. If you’re looking for a bit more crunch, consider topping the bowl with some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds. These additions not only add flavor but also create a satisfying contrast to the tender salmon and soft couscous.

For a bit of spice, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the salmon while cooking or mixing some into the dressing. This will give your dish a nice kick without overpowering the overall Mediterranean flavors. You might also experiment with different herbs such as dill or basil in the dressing for a distinct twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the couscous and dressing in advance and store them separately. This way, you can quickly assemble your bowl after a busy day. The cooked salmon should be stored in a separate container in the refrigerator and is best enjoyed within 2 days for optimum freshness. To revive it on serving day, gently reheat the salmon in a skillet over low heat to prevent dryness.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider meal prep containers to portion out the couscous and vegetables, keeping the dressing on the side to maintain freshness. This makes it easy to grab a healthy lunch on the go or enjoy a satisfying dinner without much fuss—just assemble and enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa works great and is a gluten-free option.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?

Yes, you can use trout or tilapia as an alternative, adjusting cooking times as needed.