Savory Herb-Infused Salmon with Almond Couscous Pilaf
Delight in this flavorful Savory Herb-Infused Salmon with Almond Couscous Pilaf, a perfect one-dish meal that balances fresh ingredients with aromatic spices. The tender baked salmon complements a vibrant pilaf made with fluffy couscous, sweet raisins, crunchy almonds, and fragrant mint, creating an exquisite dining experience. Serve it with a fresh squeeze of lemon for an added zing, making this dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
4
Servings
223
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Carrots
6 medium (sliced lengthwise and then cut into 1/8 inch diagonal sections)
Uncooked Couscous
1 cup (none)
Slivered Almonds
1/2 cup (none)
Raisins
1/2 cup (none)
Fresh Mint
1/4 cup (chopped)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Sea Salt
to taste (none)
Fresh Ground Pepper
to taste (none)
Skinless Salmon Fillets
4 (7 ounces each) (none)
Lemon Wedges
as needed (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
Prepare the carrots by slicing them lengthwise and then cutting them into 1/8 inch diagonal sections. Set aside.
3
In a large 9x13 inch baking pan, combine the sliced carrots, uncooked couscous, slivered almonds, raisins, chopped fresh mint, olive oil, and a generous sprinkle of sea salt and fresh ground pepper.
4
Pour 1 1/4 cups of water into the mixture and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5
Carefully place the salmon fillets on top of the mixture. Season the fillets generously with additional sea salt and fresh ground pepper.
6
Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
7
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and opaque, and the couscous has absorbed the liquid.
8
Once baked, carefully transfer the salmon fillets to individual plates.
9
Using a fork, fluff the couscous mixture, and serve a portion alongside the salmon on each plate.
10
Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice from lemon wedges before serving.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
23g
Carbs
14g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Herb-Infused Salmon with Almond Couscous Pilaf?
It is a flavorful one-dish meal that features tender baked salmon served over a vibrant pilaf made with couscous, raisins, almonds, and fresh mint.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count for a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 223 calories.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C).
How long does the salmon need to bake?
The dish should be baked for 30-35 minutes until the salmon is opaque and the liquid is absorbed.
What type of salmon is recommended?
The recipe calls for four skinless salmon fillets, each weighing 7 ounces.
How should the carrots be prepared?
Carrots should be sliced lengthwise and then cut into 1/8 inch diagonal sections.
What size baking pan is required?
A large 9x13 inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe.
Does the couscous need to be cooked before adding it to the pan?
No, you use 1 cup of uncooked couscous which cooks in the oven with the other ingredients.
How much water is added to the couscous mixture?
You should pour 1 1/4 cups of water into the baking pan.
What type of nuts are included in the pilaf?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of slivered almonds for crunch and flavor.
Are there any dried fruits in this dish?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 cup of raisins.
What fresh herb is used for seasoning?
The dish uses 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint.
Should the baking pan be covered while in the oven?
Yes, the pan should be covered tightly with aluminum foil during baking.
How do I finish the dish before serving?
Finish the dish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice from lemon wedges.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 14 grams of protein.
How much fat is in this salmon recipe?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 23 grams of carbohydrates.
What kind of oil should be used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What is the first step in preparing the couscous mixture?
Combine carrots, uncooked couscous, almonds, raisins, mint, olive oil, salt, and pepper in the baking pan.
How do you handle the couscous after baking?
After baking, use a fork to fluff the couscous mixture before serving.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 10 primary ingredients required for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a One Dish Meal because the salmon and pilaf are baked together in one pan.
How should the salmon fillets be seasoned?
Season the fillets generously with sea salt and fresh ground pepper before baking.
Is this a healthy dinner option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dinner and features fresh vegetables and lean protein.
What is the preparation for the fresh mint?
The fresh mint should be chopped before being added to the mixture.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While the recipe suggests fresh lemon wedges for the best zing, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How do I know the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
What makes the pilaf aromatic?
The combination of fresh mint, raisins, and slivered almonds creates a fragrant and flavorful pilaf.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for sea salt to taste.