Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 fillets of salmon; 1 cup couscous; 1 ½ cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; ¼ red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup black olives, pitted and sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl because it's packed with flavor and is incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender salmon, fluffy couscous, and fresh vegetables creates a vibrant meal that feels gourmet yet comes together effortlessly. I usually whip this up on busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into our diet while enjoying a delicious dish!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:18:27.803Z

When I first created this Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl, I aimed to capture the essence of vibrant flavors from the Mediterranean region. I found that grilling the salmon enhances its natural richness, while the bright vegetables and herbs add a refreshing touch. To avoid a dry bowl, I recommend drizzling a bit of olive oil over the couscous just before serving.

I've also loved experimenting with various spices to make each version unique, and pairing it with a tangy yogurt sauce makes it feel like a special treat. This recipe has become a go-to for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Unlocking the Flavors of Salmon

The salmon in this dish not only serves as the centerpiece but also brings a wealth of flavor and nutrition. It’s crucial to choose high-quality salmon, preferably wild-caught for its superior taste and omega-3 fatty acid content. When preparing, let your fillets rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking; this helps them cook evenly. Whether you choose to grill or pan-sear, aim for a medium-high heat level to get a nice sear while allowing the fish to cook through without drying out.

During cooking, keep an eye out for the salmon’s color change. It should turn from a translucent pink to a more opaque shade, usually within 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. If uncertain, using a fork to gently flake the thickest part will reveal if it’s fully cooked. Perfectly cooked salmon should be moist and flaky; avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

Couscous Cooking Techniques

Couscous is a fantastic grain that cooks up quickly and is very versatile. Since it expands significantly when cooked, ensuring you use the right ratio of broth to couscous is key; a 1.5:1 ratio works well for fluffy results. Remember to let it steam off the heat covered for about five minutes, then fluff it gently with a fork to separate any clumps, resulting in a light, airy texture that's perfect for absorbing the vibrant flavors of the added vegetables and dressing.

You can also experiment with adding seasonings to the couscous while it cooks. A pinch of salt, or even a splash of lemon juice or olive oil in the broth, can elevate the overall flavor profile. For an even heartier version, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the couscous after fluffing; these additions lend a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory salmon and veggies.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl makes for excellent leftovers; stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 3 days in the fridge. When reheating, be careful not to overheat the salmon, as it can dry out. I recommend warming the couscous in a microwave with a splash of broth covered to maintain some moisture, then flake the salmon back onto the dish to enjoy once more. If you're looking to make the dish ahead of time, consider cooking the salmon and preparing the couscous a day prior to serving to save on dinner prep time.

For serving ideas, you can expand this bowl with various toppings like feta cheese or even a dollop of hummus for extra creaminess. A side of grilled lemon or a fresh green salad can also add a nice balance to the dish. Feel free to adjust the toppings based on what you have available; this bowl is quite versatile, allowing you to include seasonal vegetables as well.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delicious Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl.

Ingredients

2 fillets of salmon
1 cup couscous
1 ½ cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup black olives, pitted and sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl.

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous, stir, and cover. Remove from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Salmon

While the couscous is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Grill or pan-sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until cooked through and flaky.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.

Assemble the Bowl

Divide the couscous mixture into bowls and top each with a salmon fillet. Drizzle with additional olive oil and garnish with extra lemon juice if desired.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add more vegetables based on your preference, like bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the nutritional value.

Ingredient Substitutions

If salmon isn’t your fish of choice or isn’t available, feel free to substitute it with another protein such as boneless chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will absorb the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. With chicken, you’ll want to increase the cooking time by a few minutes, and for tofu, ensure that it’s firm to hold its shape during cooking.

In terms of veggies, you can swap out the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers with seasonal produce you have on hand. Roasted bell peppers or zucchini can add a nice touch and depth of flavor, while edamame or peas can bring a sweet pop to the dish. Always adjust the proportions based on your preference; this dish thrives on flexibility.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue with cooking salmon is the potential for overcooking, resulting in a dry texture. If you're uncertain about the doneness, rely on a food thermometer—salmon is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8°C). Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, so it’s okay to take it off a minute early.

Another frequent concern is clumping in the couscous. If you find your couscous is sticky, it may be because it was not fluffed properly or allowed to sit with the lid on too long post-cooking. If this happens, you can add a splash of olive oil and gently mix it through, which should help separate the grains and bring it back to life.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the couscous and salmon ahead of time, but for the freshest flavors, assemble the bowl just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

Quinoa or bulgur wheat are great alternatives.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Using quinoa instead of couscous makes this dish gluten-free.