This green harissa salmon is a fast, flavorful dinner that feels special yet fits perfectly into a busy weeknight. Tender salmon is coated in a vibrant, herby harissa sauce, finished with lemon zest, and lightly caramelized in the oven for a bold but balanced dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe comes together with minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients. The green harissa adds heat, brightness, and depth without overpowering the salmon. Baking followed by a quick broil creates a juicy interior with a lightly caramelized top. It is naturally high in protein, satisfying, and easy to adapt to different spice levels.

Ingredients

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

1 lb wild salmon fillet, skin on
2 tablespoons green harissa paste
zest of 1/2 lemon
4 lemon wedges, for serving
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon raw sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil.

Cut the salmon fillet into 4 equal pieces. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and season evenly with kosher salt.

Spread the green harissa paste over the top of each salmon piece. Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the harissa.

Bake the salmon for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish is just opaque and flakes easily.

Remove the salmon from the oven and switch the oven to broil. Sprinkle the raw sugar evenly over the top of the salmon.

Return the salmon to the oven and broil for 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the edges begin to brown and the top lightly caramelizes.

Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people, with 1 piece of salmon per serving.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 to 16 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

For a milder version, use a mild green harissa or reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon.
For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed chili flakes on top before baking.
Try red harissa instead of green for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
Add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a 300°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the salmon tough.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking.

What is green harissa made from?

Green harissa is typically made with green chili peppers, herbs like cilantro or parsley, garlic, spices, and vinegar or lemon juice.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level depends on the harissa you use. You can easily control the heat by choosing a mild or spicy variety.

Can I cook this salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, then briefly increase the temperature to caramelize the top if needed.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

No, the skin helps keep the salmon moist during cooking and can be easily removed after baking if desired.

What sides pair well with green harissa salmon?

Roasted vegetables, rice, couscous, or a simple green salad pair very well with this dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can prepare the salmon with harissa and zest a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until baking.

Is raw sugar necessary?

No, you can substitute with regular sugar or omit it, but it helps balance acidity and adds light caramelization.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center.

Can I use individual salmon fillets instead of a whole fillet?

Yes, individual fillets work perfectly and cook in the same amount of time.

Conclusion

Green harissa salmon is a simple yet bold dish that transforms everyday salmon into something exciting. With minimal effort and big flavor, it is an excellent choice for a healthy, satisfying meal that you will want to make again and again.

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