If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with bold flavors and perfectly balanced textures, look no further than this irresistible Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe. The vibrant, spicy kick of the harissa paste beautifully complements the rich, tender salmon, while the crisp-tender broccolini adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that rounds out the plate. This recipe is as simple as it is impressive, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is key to unlocking its full flavor potential. Each component is straightforward and packs a punch, whether it’s the fiery harissa or the fresh parsley that brings brightness and depth. Together, they create a harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so satisfying.
- Salmon fillets (1 1/2 pounds): Opt for fresh or thawed fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that balances the heat.
- Harissa (1 tablespoon): This North African chili paste is the star that gives the dish its signature spicy, smoky flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps meld the marinade together and keeps the salmon moist during roasting.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle sweetness that counteracts the heat from the harissa.
- Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Adds a zesty tang that brightens the entire dish.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Provides aromatic depth and a savory punch.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
- Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Broccolini (2 bunches, ends trimmed): This tender green vegetable complements the rich salmon with its slight crunch and mild bitterness.
How to Make Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for roasting the salmon and broccolini evenly, allowing the harissa glaze to caramelize slightly while keeping the salmon wonderfully tender.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the chopped parsley, harissa, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and kosher salt. This sauce is where all the layers of flavor come together, so make sure it’s well combined. The sweet, spicy, and tangy notes in this marinade will infuse the salmon and broccolini with irresistible taste.
Step 3: Arrange and Coat
Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the marinade stick better. Place the salmon on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper, giving each piece enough space. Surround the fillets with the trimmed broccolini. Spoon the harissa marinade evenly over the salmon, spreading it to cover the surface fully. Pour any remaining marinade onto the broccolini and toss it gently so every piece is coated with that flavorful blend.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and roast for about 14 to 16 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The broccolini should become tender yet retain a little bite, perfectly complementing the juicy salmon.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, it’s time to serve immediately while the salmon is flaky and warm. For a lovely touch, pairing this with lemony couscous or your favorite grain completes the meal wonderfully. This final step is all about enjoying the vibrant, spicy harmony you’ve created with the Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe.
How to Serve Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side. Fresh herbs add a pop of color and brightness, while a squeeze of lemon just before eating enhances the flavors in a delightful way.
Side Dishes
While the broccolini roasts alongside the salmon, this harissa salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy couscous, turmeric rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes. These options help balance the spice and soak up any extra sauce, making every bite deliciously complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the salmon on a large platter with broccolini artfully arranged around it. Drizzle some extra olive oil or harissa sauce on top and garnish with microgreens for a restaurant-quality look. Alternatively, individual serving plates with a neat stack of broccolini beside the fillet provide a clean and elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salmon and broccolini separate if possible to maintain textures—salmon can become a bit soft if mixed with saucy greens overnight.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Broccolini does not freeze well once cooked, so it’s best to prepare fresh sides when thawing your salmon for maximum flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in an oven set to 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can toughen the salmon and make the broccolini soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular broccoli for broccolini?
Absolutely! While broccolini offers a more delicate texture and sweeter flavor, regular broccoli works just fine. Just trim it and roast until tender-crisp, adjusting the cooking time slightly.
Is harissa very spicy?
Harissa can vary in heat depending on the brand or recipe. For this dish, 1 tablespoon provides a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the salmon. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I grill the salmon and broccolini instead of roasting?
Yes! Grilling imparts a lovely smoky flavor. Use direct heat for the salmon and cook the broccolini briefly to keep its crunch. Just brush everything with the harissa marinade before grilling for the best taste.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The easiest way is to use an instant-read thermometer—it should register 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part. If you don’t have one, look for salmon that flakes easily and is opaque throughout.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! Preparing the harissa marinade a day in advance lets the flavors deepen. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container and bring it to room temperature before using.
Final Thoughts
This Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and bold flavors come together to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try and discover just how delicious roasted salmon and spicy harissa can be when paired perfectly. Happy cooking!
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Harissa Salmon with Broccolini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Harissa Salmon recipe featuring tender salmon fillets marinated in a spicy harissa blend and roasted alongside fresh broccolini. This easy-to-make dish combines the smoky heat of harissa with honey’s subtle sweetness and garlic, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner packed with bold flavors.
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 F to prepare for roasting the salmon and broccolini.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine chopped fresh parsley, harissa, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Prepare the salmon and broccolini: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the trimmed broccolini around the salmon on the sheet.
- Apply the marinade: Spoon the harissa mixture evenly over the salmon, coating all surfaces. Pour any remaining marinade onto the broccolini and toss lightly to ensure they are coated.
- Roast the dish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 14 to 16 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the salmon and broccolini from the oven and serve immediately. Optionally, pair with lemony couscous for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- Harissa paste varies in heat—adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- For a crunchy texture, you can briefly broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes after roasting.
- This recipe pairs well with couscous, rice, or quinoa for a filling side.
- Use fresh broccolini for the best flavor and texture; if unavailable, broccoli florets are a good substitute.
