Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad

This Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad combines the smoky flavor of salmon with zesty oranges and crunchy hazelnuts for a refreshing dish. Ideal for a nutritious lunch or light dinner, it's easy to prepare and perfect for showcasing vibrant ingredients.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 0 min

Ingredients:

1 cup couscous
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
3 oranges
2 shallots
1/3 cup hazelnuts
1 cup fresh parsley
12 oz salmon
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp spice mix
Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad

This Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or light dinner, the salad features smoky salmon, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a zesty orange dressing. It’s an easy and quick recipe that’s sure to impress your taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
- Place 1 cup couscous in a large heatproof bowl.
- Pour over 1 cup of boiling water, cover, and let it sit for 10 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed all of the water.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the couscous, mixing well to combine.
3. Segment the Oranges:
- Peel the oranges and remove the white pith.
- Using a sharp knife, segment the oranges by cutting between the membranes.
- Reserve the orange segments and squeeze any remaining juice from the membranes into a small bowl.
4. Slice the Shallots:
- Finely slice the shallots and add to the couscous mixture.
5. Toast the Hazelnuts:
- In a dry pan, toast the hazelnuts over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from the heat, let cool slightly, and chop them roughly.
- Add the chopped hazelnuts to the couscous mixture.
6. Add Fresh Parsley:
- Chop the fresh parsley and add to the couscous mixture.
7. Prepare the Salmon:
- Flake the hot-smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently incorporate into the couscous mixture.
8. Make the Dressing:
- In the bowl with the reserved orange juice, whisk in 1/4 cup olive oil and 1 tsp of your chosen spice mix.
- Pour the dressing over the couscous salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
9. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional parsley or orange segments, if desired.
10. Enjoy:
- Serve the hot-smoked salmon and couscous salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious dish as a light main course or a hearty side.

This Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad is an excellent choice for a wholesome yet exciting meal. The combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and smoky salmon will leave you wanting more. Enjoy your delightful and nutritious salad!

Hot-smoked salmon & couscous salad FAQ:

How long should I let the couscous sit after adding boiling water?

Let the couscous sit covered for 10 minutes to allow it to absorb the boiling water completely.

What can I substitute for couscous in this salad?

You can substitute quinoa, farro, or orzo for couscous if you're looking for a gluten-free or different grain alternative.

How should I store leftovers of the salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits.

What is the best way to check if the hazelnuts are toasted properly?

Toast hazelnuts until they are golden brown and fragrant, typically about 5-7 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of hot-smoked salmon?

It’s recommended to use hot-smoked salmon for its unique flavor, but if using fresh salmon, ensure it's cooked thoroughly before adding.

Cooking Tips:

- To achieve the perfect couscous texture, ensure you fluff it gently with a fork after cooking.

- Toast the hazelnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding to the salad.

- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the dressing to get the most vibrant citrus flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 18g
Fat 24g

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