The first time I tried Moroccan salmon, I was captivated by its bold spices and vibrant flavors. It was during a family gathering when I wanted to impress everyone with a unique dish that would stand out on the table. The delicate, flaky salmon infused with the warmth of Moroccan spices instantly became a favorite. This recipe is a perfect blend of aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, and earthy spices, delivering a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. If you love exploring exotic flavors, this recipe will undoubtedly leave you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Salmon Recipe?
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of paprika, cumin, turmeric, and coriander creates a spice mix that’s earthy, smoky, and tangy.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
- Versatile: Works beautifully with various side dishes like couscous, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.
Ingredients for Moroccan Salmon
For the Marinade:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Fire-Roasted Peppers (Optional Topping):
- 2 large red bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Moroccan Salmon?
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices.
- Place salmon fillets on a plate or shallow dish and rub the marinade generously on both sides. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Roast the Peppers (Optional)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the bell peppers into strips, toss them with olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes or until soft and slightly charred.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the marinated salmon fillets on the sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the salmon and top with roasted peppers if desired.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Variations and Tips
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Swap salmon for trout, cod, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tangier kick.
- Cooking Methods:
- Grill the salmon on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Pan-sear it for a crispy crust before finishing in the oven.
- Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat.
Final Thoughts On Moroccan Salmon
This Moroccan salmon recipe is an explosion of flavor and a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Morocco. With its perfect blend of spices and simple preparation, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let me know how it turned out, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own!
Moroccan Salmon Recipe: A Flavorful and Nutritious Delight
This Moroccan-inspired salmon dish is bursting with bold flavors, thanks to a warm blend of spices like cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and coriander. Topped with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, it’s the perfect balance of smoky, zesty, and slightly sweet. Great for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this salmon pairs beautifully with couscous or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients
For the Marinade:
For the Fire-Roasted Peppers (Optional Topping):
Instructions
-
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices.
-
Place salmon fillets on a plate or shallow dish and rub the marinade generously on both sides. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Slice the bell peppers into strips, toss them with olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes or until soft and slightly charred.
-
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Place the marinated salmon fillets on the sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork.
-
Plate the salmon and top with roasted peppers if desired.
-
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.