If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, then you’re going to love this Harissa Salmon Recipe. This dish brings together tender, flaky salmon coated in a bright, aromatic harissa marinade that sings with garlic, honey, and lemon notes. It’s a simple yet spectacular way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The broccolini roasted alongside the salmon adds a wonderful crisp-tender touch, creating a beautifully balanced plate with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays an important role in building the flavor and texture of the Harissa Salmon Recipe. From the rich salmon fillets to the punchy harissa, this list ensures every bite is just right.
- Salmon fillets, 1 1/2 pounds: Fresh, high-quality salmon is key for flaky, juicy results.
- Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped: Adds a fresh herbal brightness to the marinade.
- Harissa, 1 tablespoon: This North African chili paste brings the signature smoky heat to the dish.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Helps create a luscious coating that keeps the salmon moist.
- Honey, 1 tablespoon: Balances the spice with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Lemon juice, 2 teaspoons: Brightens flavors and adds a zesty tang.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Infuses the marinade with savory depth.
- Onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon: Boosts the savory notes without overpowering the salmon.
- Kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the fish perfectly.
- Broccolini, 2 bunches: Roasts beautifully alongside the salmon providing a crisp yet tender vegetable side.
How to Make Harissa Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s hot and ready to give your salmon that perfect roast. This temperature is ideal for cooking the fish evenly while keeping it moist and tender.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine your chopped parsley, harissa, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and kosher salt. Stir everything until smooth and well blended. This vibrant mix will be the heart of your Harissa Salmon Recipe, giving the salmon that irresistible punch of flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon and Broccolini
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better. Place the fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then arrange your trimmed broccolini around the fish. Spoon the harissa marinade generously over the salmon, spreading it evenly so every bite is full of flavor. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover marinade over the broccolini and toss gently to coat the veggies in that same delicious sauce.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Pop the tray in the oven and roast for about 14 to 16 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is perfectly cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The broccolini will be tender with just the right amount of caramelized edges, complementing your Harissa Salmon Recipe wonderfully.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Remove the salmon and broccolini from the oven and serve right away for the best taste and texture. If you want to add an extra touch, a side of lemony couscous pairs beautifully with this dish, soaking up those leftover harissa juices.
How to Serve Harissa Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges served alongside will brighten the dish visually and add a refreshing lift to every bite. If you love a little heat, a light drizzle of extra harissa or chili oil can amp up the flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This Harissa Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy couscous, quinoa, or even a creamy mashed potato. For a lighter touch, a crisp mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the spicy, rich salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the salmon over a bed of roasted vegetables or fluffy grains with some fresh herbs scattered on top for an inviting look. Serving it family-style on a large platter can create a warm, communal meal vibe that encourages sharing and good conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though you might find it hard not to finish this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a delicious lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy the salmon fresh for optimal texture. However, if needed, you can freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s recommended to use frozen leftovers within 1 month for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover salmon gently in the oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the fish moist as it warms.
FAQs
What is harissa and why use it in this salmon recipe?
Harissa is a flavorful chili paste from North Africa, made from smoked and dried chilis, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It adds smoky heat and depth, making it a perfect partner for salmon’s natural richness in this recipe.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the frozen salmon dry before marinating. This helps the harissa marinade stick better and ensures even cooking.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The heat level depends on the harissa brand you choose. Generally, it offers a moderate spicy kick that’s balanced by honey and lemon, so it’s pleasant but not overwhelming for most palates. You can always adjust the harissa quantity to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Harissa Salmon Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the label on your harissa paste to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are included.
What can I serve instead of broccolini?
If broccolini is hard to find, tender asparagus, green beans, or even roasted zucchini make excellent alternatives that pair wonderfully with harissa-flavored salmon.
Final Thoughts
This Harissa Salmon Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I crave something exciting yet approachable. Its bold flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout meal any day of the week. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
Print
Harissa Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: North African
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Harissa Salmon recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful twist on classic salmon, featuring a spicy North African harissa marinade balanced with honey and lemon. The salmon is baked alongside tender broccolini, making for a wholesome and delightful meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon harissa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Vegetables
- 2 bunches broccolini, ends trimmed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the salmon and broccolini.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh parsley, harissa, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix well to create a balanced and flavorful harissa marinade.
- Prep Salmon and Broccolini: Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Place the salmon on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Arrange the broccolini around the salmon evenly on the sheet pan.
- Apply Marinade: Spoon the harissa marinade over the salmon, spreading it evenly to cover the fillets. Pour any remaining marinade over the broccolini and toss the broccolini gently to coat it well with the sauce.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes. Bake until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and flakes easily with a fork. The broccolini will also roast to a tender, slightly crisp texture.
- Serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and serve the harissa salmon and broccolini immediately. Optionally, pair with lemony couscous for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness ensuring safety and perfect texture.
- Harissa paste varies in heat, so adjust quantity according to your spice preference.
- For a gluten-free meal, serve with quinoa or rice instead of couscous.
- Broccolini can be substituted with asparagus or broccoli florets if preferred.
- Prepare marinade ahead of time to save prep time on busy days.
