Harissa Baked Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Harissa Baked Salmon is a bold, flavorful dish that pairs rich, flaky salmon with the smoky heat of harissa paste. It’s quick to prepare, roasted to perfection in under 20 minutes, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. With its vibrant spice, minimal ingredients, and effortless prep, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

this Recipe

salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)harissa pasteolive oillemon juicegarlic (minced)honey or maple syrup (optional)saltpepperfresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and honey (if using).

Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.

Brush or spoon the harissa mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Garnish with chopped herbs and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12–15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use yogurt to temper the spice and create a creamy marinade.

Add sliced onions or cherry tomatoes to roast alongside the salmon.

Swap harissa for another chili paste like sambal oelek or gochujang for a twist.

Serve over couscous, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or enjoy cold in salads.Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Is harissa very spicy?

It has a smoky, medium heat—adjust quantity to your spice tolerance.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

What does harissa taste like?

It’s smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy with a deep chili flavor.

Can I grill this instead?

Yes, grill on medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion

Harissa Baked Salmon is a fast, flavorful way to spice up your dinner routine. With minimal prep and bold seasoning, it’s a dish that feels special yet fits into busy schedules—perfect for both everyday meals and impressive presentations.

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