Lunch: Roast Salmon with Couscous Crust

ecipe By: Marcia Kiesel This clever alternative to breadcrumbs is a way to use up leftover cooked couscous. It holds its shape and delivers a much more satisfying crunch.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Salmon

Health benefits of Roast Salmon with Couscous Crust

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health. It is also rich in vitamin D, which helps regulate insulin levels and improve mood, both of which are important for managing PCOS symptoms. Additionally, salmon provides a good amount of B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports energy production and helps maintain healthy nerve function. Including salmon in your diet can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support overall well-being.

Ingredients

1 c. boiling water
1 c. instant couscous
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 slice lean bacon
1 clove garlic
6 oil-packed black olives
1 tbsp. Chopped flat-leaf parsley
Salt and freshly ground pepper
4 center-cut salmon fillets
1 leek
1/2 c. fruity Pinot Noir
2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 shallot
1 stick well chilled unsalted butter (4 ounces)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F. In a small heatproof bowl, pour the boiling water over the couscous. Cover with a plate and let stand until the water has been completely absorbed, about 20 minutes.
In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the diced bacon and cook over moderate heat until it is lightly crisp, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until the garlic is fragrant. Remove the bacon from the heat and stir in the olives, parsley and couscous. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Put the salmon fillets on a lightly oiled baking sheet, skinned side down and season with salt and pepper. Carefully mound the couscous on the fillets, pressing lightly to help it adhere. Bake the salmon in the upper third of the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and the salmon is just cooked through.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the leek, cover and cook over moderately low heat until softened, about 6 minutes. Scrape the leek onto a plate. Add the Pinot Noir, vinegar and shallot to the saucepan and boil over moderately high heat until the liquid has reduced to 2 1/2 tablespoons, about 4 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time; return the pan to the heat only as necessary to keep the sauce warm. Do not let the sauce boil. Stir the leeks into the sauce and cook just until heated through. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Serve at once with the salmon.
Wine Recommendation: Elegant, structured 2003 Merry Edwards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.