Mediterranean Salmon Bowl with Couscous
This Mediterranean Salmon Bowl with Couscous is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The tender, herb-marinated salmon pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, roasted vegetables, and a tangy yogurt sauce. It’s a balanced meal loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
(Serves 2)
For the Salmon:
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Couscous:
½ cup couscous
¾ cup boiling water or vegetable broth
½ teaspoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Roasted Vegetables:
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup zucchini, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Mediterranean Toppings:
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons hummus (optional)
For the Yogurt Sauce:
½ cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the marinade over the salmon fillets and let them sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Couscous
1. Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl.
2. Pour boiling water or broth over it, add olive oil and salt, then cover with a lid or plate.
3. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper with olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, until soft and slightly charred.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Option 1: Pan-Seared Salmon
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes.
3. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until flaky and cooked through.
Option 2: Oven-Baked Salmon
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked thoroughly.
Step 5: Make the Yogurt Sauce
1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well and refrigerate until serving.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls
1. Divide the couscous between two bowls.
2. Add roasted vegetables, cooked salmon, olives, red onion, feta, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with yogurt sauce and add a dollop of hummus if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 550
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High
Sodium: 650mg
Vitamin A: 35% DV
Vitamin C: 50% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 15% DV
Notes & Tips
Make It Low-Carb:
Swap couscous for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Make It Dairy-Free:
Use dairy-free yogurt or skip the feta.
Meal Prep Friendly:
Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days (keep sauce separate).
Extra Crunch:
Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for texture.
Spice It Up:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Question Answers
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or under cold water before marinating.
Q: Can I grill the salmon instead?
A: Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Q: What can I use instead of couscous?
A: Quinoa, farro, or brown rice are great alternatives.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep everything in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat salmon gently to avoid drying it out.
Q: What should I serve this with?
A: This bowl is a complete meal, but it pairs well with warm pita bread or a cucumber salad.
This Mediterranean Salmon Bowl with Couscous is a perfect blend of fresh flavors, lean protein, and wholesome ingredients. It’s a delicious, satisfying, and healthy meal that can be enjoyed any time of the week!