Harissa Baked Salmon is a bold, flavorful dish that brings a North African twist to a healthy weeknight meal. The fiery, smoky flavors of harissa paste perfectly complement the rich, buttery texture of salmon, creating a simple yet satisfying entrée. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, spicy flavor thanks to harissa paste
Ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy nights
Packed with protein and heart-healthy omega-3s
Easily customizable to suit your spice tolerance
Delicious with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad

ingredients

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

Salmon fillets
Harissa paste
Olive oil
Salt
Optional: honey, garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix together harissa paste and olive oil. Optional: stir in a bit of honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, or spices like cumin and coriander.
Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season lightly with salt.
Brush the harissa mixture generously over the top of each fillet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Optional: Broil for the final 1–2 minutes to caramelize the top.
Let rest for a few minutes, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add honey for a sweet-and-spicy glaze
Swap harissa for another chili paste if you prefer a different flavor profile
Mix yogurt with harissa for a creamy, mellow marinade
Use preserved lemon or zest for a bright citrus note
Serve with herb-tossed couscous, roasted vegetables, or flatbread

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or in a covered skillet over low heat
Avoid microwaving to maintain texture
You can flake leftovers over salad, grain bowls, or into wraps

FAQs

What is harissa?

Harissa is a North African chili paste made with roasted peppers, spices, and olive oil. It’s known for its smoky, spicy flavor.

Can I use another fish instead of salmon?

Yes, this recipe works well with cod, trout, or halibut—just adjust cooking time for thinner fillets.

Is harissa very spicy?

It varies by brand. Taste your harissa before using, and adjust quantity to your heat preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the marinade and coat the salmon a few hours in advance, then bake when ready to serve.

What sides go well with harissa salmon?

Couscous, rice, roasted vegetables, or a cucumber yogurt salad pair beautifully.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it’s high in protein and omega-3s, and harissa adds flavor without added sugars or heavy fats.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Absolutely. Grill skin-side down over medium heat for about 10 minutes, brushing with marinade.

Should I remove the skin?

It’s optional. Skin helps retain moisture during baking but can be removed before or after cooking.

Can I use store-bought harissa?

Yes, store-bought harissa is perfect. Just check the label for spice level and adjust to taste.

What can I do with leftovers?

Use flaked salmon in wraps, salads, or over grain bowls for a quick lunch.

Conclusion

Harissa Baked Salmon is an easy way to elevate your salmon dinner with bold, global flavor. With minimal prep and maximum impact, this dish fits seamlessly into a healthy, flavor-packed meal plan. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.