Blueberry Glazed Salmon with Lemon Herb Couscous is a fresh, colorful dinner that combines tender salmon brushed with a sweet blueberry glaze and a light, citrusy couscous that feels bright and comforting in every bite. It reminds me of those cozy evenings when cooking something simple but special made dinner feel warm and memorable, and the mix of sweet berries, savory fish, and lemony herbs brought a little excitement to the table. This Blueberry Glazed Salmon with Lemon Herb Couscous is perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or anytime you want a dish that looks impressive but stays easy and delicious.
INGREDIENTS
For the salmon and glaze:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the lemon herb couscous:
1 cup couscous
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Add blueberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and garlic powder to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the blueberries soften and the mixture thickens into a glaze. Mash lightly with a spoon, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Step 2: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 4: Flip the salmon and brush generously with the blueberry glaze. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, brushing again to build flavor and shine.
Step 5: Transfer the salmon to a plate and let it rest for a minute.
Step 6: For the couscous, bring broth and butter to a boil in a small pot. Add couscous, stir once, cover, and remove from heat.
Step 7: Let couscous sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.
Step 8: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 9: Serve each salmon fillet over a bed of lemon herb couscous and drizzle with extra glaze if desired.
Variations
• Use maple syrup instead of honey
• Swap couscous for quinoa or rice
• Add fresh mint to the couscous
• Use raspberries or blackberries instead of blueberries
• Bake salmon instead of pan-searing
COOKING NOTES
• Don’t boil the glaze too long or it will become too thick
• Pat salmon dry for better browning
• Keep heat medium to prevent burning the glaze
• Let couscous rest covered for fluffy texture
• Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor
Serving suggestions
• Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans
• Serve with a light side salad
• Garnish with extra blueberries or herbs
• Add lemon wedges on the side
• Enjoy as a special weeknight or holiday dinner
Tips
• Use skin-on salmon for easier cooking
• Brush glaze during cooking for a glossy finish
• Taste glaze and adjust sweetness or acidity
• Fluff couscous gently to keep it light
• Serve immediately for the best texture
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~420
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 14g
Protein: 32g
FAQs
Why did my glaze turn too thick?
- It may have cooked too long; thin it with a splash of lemon juice or water.
Can I bake the salmon instead?
- Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes and brush with glaze halfway through.
Can I use frozen salmon?
- Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking.
Can I use fresh blueberries only?
- Frozen blueberries work just as well for the glaze.
Can I make the couscous ahead?
- Yes, reheat gently and fluff before serving.
Conclusion
Blueberry Glazed Salmon with Lemon Herb Couscous is a bright, flavorful meal that balances sweetness, tanginess, and savory comfort in a simple, beautiful dish. The juicy salmon, glossy blueberry glaze, and fluffy lemon couscous create a dinner that feels elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough for everyday cooking. It’s colorful, nutritious, and satisfying, making it a recipe you’ll want to return to whenever you need a fresh, cheerful meal that brings warmth and excitement to the table.
