Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Make the Blueberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and the zest of half a lemon. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. As it heats, gently mash about half of the blueberries with the back of a spoon to release their juices. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
- Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season generously on all sides with salt and black pepper. Place the fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Glaze and Bake: Spoon about three-quarters of the balsamic blueberry glaze over the top of the salmon fillets, spreading it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for serving. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F. For a more caramelized top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching it closely.
- Prepare the Lemon Herb Couscous: While the salmon is baking, place the dry couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour the boiling water or broth over it, stir once, and cover the bowl tightly. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, until all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Assemble and Serve: Once the couscous is ready, fluff it with a fork. Gently stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. To serve, spoon a bed of the lemon herb couscous onto each plate, top with a fillet of the Blueberry Glazed Salmon, and drizzle with any remaining glaze.
Notes
For best results, don't overcook the salmon; it's ready when it flakes easily (around 135°F). Ensure the glaze is thick enough to coat a spoon. The glaze can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Substitutions are welcome: try Arctic char or cod instead of salmon, maple syrup for honey, or serve with quinoa instead of couscous.
