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 salmon fillets; 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking Recipes

I love creating simple yet flavorful meals, and this Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of tender salmon, fluffy couscous, and vibrant vegetables makes for a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. I enjoy how the Mediterranean flavors come together, creating a harmonious balance that transports me to sunny shores with each bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthful lunch, this bowl is a delicious way to celebrate fresh ingredients.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:37:28.589Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean-inspired dish at home, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors came together. The key to this recipe is in the seasoning of the salmon and the addition of fresh herbs. One crucial tip I learned is to let the couscous steam slightly after cooking, which gives it that perfect fluffiness that holds up to all the toppings.

As I experimented with various toppings, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil elevates the dish to another level. It balances the richness of the salmon beautifully while adding a delicious creaminess. This bowl has become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant Mediterranean flavors that brighten up your day
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy ingredients that are satisfying and nourishing

Perfecting Salmon Cooking Techniques

When cooking salmon, achieving the right temperature is essential for optimal flavor and texture. I recommend using a skillet preheated to medium-high, allowing the salmon to sear effectively. Look for the fish to be a deep golden brown and somewhat opaque in the center after 4-5 minutes on each side. If cooking in batches, avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain a consistent temperature and even cooking throughout.

For added moisture and flavor, consider marinating the salmon fillets for 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs before cooking. This not only enhances the fish’s natural flavors but can also help keep it juicy during the cooking process, especially if you're concerned about drying out the salmon.

Couscous: A Versatile Base

Couscous acts as a wonderful foundation for this bowl, soaking up the lemon juice and the juices from the salmon. Using vegetable broth instead of plain water infuses it with additional flavor, making the dish more satisfying. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, quinoa can be a great substitute; just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it usually takes about 15 minutes to cook and requires rinsing to remove its natural bitterness.

To add more texture, consider mixing in toasted nuts or seeds after fluffing the couscous. Pine nuts or slivered almonds can bring a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft onions and juicy tomatoes. Just toast them lightly in a dry pan over low heat until golden—this adds depth without much extra effort.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl:

For the Bowl

2 salmon fillets
1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl:

Prepare the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it steam for about 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.

Cook the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and olive oil. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, combine the fluffed couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently.

Serve and Enjoy

Place the cooked salmon on top of the couscous salad, sprinkle with feta cheese, drizzle with additional olive oil if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this nutritious meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or olives for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Salmon Couscous Bowl is fantastic for meal prep! The couscous and salad components can be made in advance and stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the salmon separate until you're ready to serve to prevent sogginess. For an easy reheat, place the couscous in a microwave-safe container and warm it for about 1-2 minutes before adding fresh ingredients.

If you have leftover salmon, it can be flaked and mixed back into the couscous the next day. This can provide a whole new flavor experience as the salmon infuses the couscous with its rich flavor. To keep everything vibrant, toss in some fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This bowl is quite versatile; feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted eggplant can replace or complement the cucumbers and tomatoes for an added smoky flavor. You could also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese for a tangy bite or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

For a heartier meal, serve this bowl alongside a side of grilled or roasted vegetables. Even a dollop of hummus can elevate the dish further, offering creaminess that complements the texture of the salmon and couscous beautifully. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed when adding more ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and pat dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

Quinoa or bulgur wheat are great alternatives that work well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free couscous or quinoa.