Za'atar Crusted Salmon with Jewel Couscous
Step out of your culinary comfort zone for Week 18 with this incredibly vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish. The earthy crunch of the za'atar crust pairs perfectly with the sweet pops of pomegranate in the fluffy pearl couscous, making it an exciting and truly unforgettable dinner.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets4 pcs
- Za'atar spice blend3 tbsp
- Olive oil3 tbsp
- Pearl couscous200 g
- Vegetable broth400 ml
- Pomegranate seeds100 g
- Fresh mint1 bunch
- Lemon1 pc
- Tahini3 tbsp
- Garlic1 clove
Instructions
Toast the pearl couscous in a dash of olive oil over medium heat until golden brown. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Preheat your oven to 200°C. Rub the salmon fillets with one tablespoon of olive oil, season lightly with salt, and press a generous layer of the za'atar spice blend onto the top side of each fillet.
Place the crusted salmon on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, minced garlic, the juice of half the lemon, and 2-3 tablespoons of warm water. Keep whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste.
Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork. Gently fold in the pomegranate seeds, roughly chopped fresh mint, and a squeeze of the remaining lemon juice.
Divide the colorful jewel couscous among four plates. Carefully top each portion with a baked za'atar salmon fillet and drizzle the creamy lemon tahini sauce generously over the top.