Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A deliciously spicy and wholesome dish combining roasted salmon, chickpeas, and couscous, perfect for a healthy meal.
This Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together roasted salmon with the earthy flavors of chickpeas and the fluffy texture of couscous. It's a wonderful option for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spicy harissa adds a unique kick to the tender salmon
- Nutritious chickpeas provide protein and fiber
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Flavorful Fusion
Harissa, a North African chili paste, brings a vibrant and spicy flavor to this dish, enhancing the natural richness of the salmon. It’s made from a blend of hot peppers, garlic, and spices, providing not just heat but a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender fish. This dish invites a delightful dance of flavors that will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
The combination of salmon and chickpeas offers a nutritious balance that makes this meal both satisfying and wholesome. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. Coupled with chickpeas, which provide a great source of protein and fiber, this dish ensures you feel full while nourishing your body.
Quick and Convenient
Ideal for busy weeknights, this Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The straightforward steps make it a go-to meal when time is short but you still want to enjoy a home-cooked dish. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Using pantry staples like couscous and canned chickpeas, this recipe is not only quick but also budget-friendly. It allows you to whip up a flavorful meal without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the leftovers make for a great lunch option, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness all over again.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less harissa, depending on your preference. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or grains if you're in the mood for something new. Quinoa or farro can be wonderful substitutes for couscous, and seasonal veggies can add even more nutrition and flavor.
This dish is suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. It’s not only a great option for those following a healthy eating plan but also fits well into vegetarian diets if you replace the salmon with roasted vegetables. With a few simple swaps, you can tailor the recipe to meet your needs while keeping it delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous:
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous:
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Marinate the Salmon
In a bowl, mix the harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets in the mixture and set aside.
Cook the Couscous
In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous and chickpeas, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
Roast the Salmon
Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Finish the Couscous
Fluff the couscous with a fork, stir in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Plate the couscous, top with the roasted salmon, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous!
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place the salmon and couscous in an airtight container and refrigerate. This meal can be safely stored for up to three days, maintaining its flavor and freshness. When reheating, consider using the oven or stovetop to bring back its original texture rather than the microwave, which can make the salmon dry.
If you're meal prepping, you can cook the salmon and couscous in advance and keep them separate until you're ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy a quick reheated dinner while keeping the flavors intact. Just remember to add fresh parsley right before serving for that burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish alongside a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette can complement the spiciness of the harissa while adding a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and add variety to the plate.
Pairing this dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can elevate your dining experience. The bright acidity in the wine will balance the spiciness of the harissa, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that will impress your guests or family.
Nutritional Benefits
This Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Salmon is a fantastic source of lean protein and healthy fats, making it a heart-healthy choice. The addition of chickpeas contributes essential fiber and plant-based protein, which can help keep you feeling satisfied longer.
The dish is also rich in vitamins and minerals. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and provides antioxidants, while lemon juice enhances flavor and offers a dose of vitamin C. Together, these ingredients create a meal that is not only tasty but also beneficial for your overall health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or any white fish.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free couscous or quinoa.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the couscous and chickpeas ahead of time; just roast the salmon fresh before serving.
Harissa Roast Salmon Chickpea Couscous
A deliciously spicy and wholesome dish combining roasted salmon, chickpeas, and couscous, perfect for a healthy meal.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix the harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets in the mixture and set aside.
In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous and chickpeas, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Fluff the couscous with a fork, stir in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
Plate the couscous, top with the roasted salmon, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g