‘In Char’s Kitchen’ Season 2 ~ Episode #9: Almond Crusted Salmon with Herb Yogurt & Couscous Salad

This meal is perfect for a weeknight supper – or pretty enough to prepare and serve to guests.

Almond Crusted Salmon with Herb Yogurt Sauce 

The addition of ground almonds adds an elegant twist to this salmon dish.  

½ cup (125 mL) lightly toasted whole ground almonds

Hefty pinch: salt, pepper and nutmeg  

4 boneless salmon fillets, about 200g/6oz each

1/4 cup (60 mL) orange juice

1 tsp (5 mL) minced fresh ginger, divided

1/2 cup (125 mL) plain Greek yogurt 

¼ cup  (60 mL) chopped fresh mint

2 tbsp (30 mL) each; chopped fresh dill and chopped fresh parsley 

1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated orange zest

1/2 tsp (2 mL) minced fresh garlic (*or to taste)

1/4 tsp (1 mL) each; salt and pepper

Stir together ground almonds with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Set aside.  

Place salmon in a shallow baking dish. Stir together orange juice and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ginger. Pour over salmon. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.  

Pre-heat oven to 400 F (200 C). Press almond mixture evenly on top of salmon. Place in center of oven for about 15 minutes (or until internal temperature reads 70 C (160 F)). While salmon is baking, stir together: yogurt, remaining ginger, fresh herbs, orange zest, garlic, salt and pepper. Dollop herb yogurt sauce evenly over cooked salmon. Makes 4 servings.  

Couscous Salad With Dried Cherries & Fresh Herbs

Dressing:

zest and juice of one lemon

1 tbsp (15 mL) each; olive oil and liquid honey

2 tsp (10 mL) each: minced fresh ginger and minced garlic

1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

1/4 tsp (1 mL) chili flakes

Whisk together all ingredients until well combined. Set aside.

Salad

1 cup (250 mL) couscous + 2 tbsp (30 mL) turmeric

1 cup (250 mL) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup (125 mL) dried cherries

1/2 cup (125 mL) each: chopped green onions and chopped roasted red pepper

1/4 cup (60 mL) roughly chopped fresh mint

Stir together couscous and turmeric. Cook couscous according to package directions. Cool slightly. Add remaining ingredients and dressing and toss until well combined. Makes about 4 cups (1 L).

Charmaine is the host of “In Char’s Kitchen” on YourTV Muskoka and regular guest on: Rogers IN Studio, Rogers Daytime Ottawa, CTV Morning Live Ottawa, CHCH Morning Live and Breakfast Television sharing her love and enthusiasm for all things food, cooking and fitness.

Most importantly; Charmaine is the mother of two active boys; Tyler & Colgan.

Charmaine understands the importance of preparing healthy, wholesome dishes all while keeping budget and time in mind.

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