Deliciously Fresh: Herbed Salmon Skewers with Yogurt Chermoula

If you're looking to elevate your summer grilling game with a dish that bursts with flavor and simple sophistication, herbed salmon skewers with yogurt chermoula might just be your new favorite recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the delicate taste of salmon with the vibrant, herba notes of chermoula, all finished off with a creamy yogurt twist. Let's dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.

If the term ‘chermoula’ is new to you, this is a marinade and sauce used in Algerian, Moroccan, and Tunisian cuisine. It's typically made from a mixture of fresh herbs (like cilantro and parsley), garlic, spices (such as cumin and paprika), lemon juice, and olive oil. The exact ingredients can vary slightly depending on the region and personal preferences, but the overall effect is a bright, tangy, and herb-infused sauce that complements seafood and meats beautifully.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of yogurt. To make this creamy variation of the traditional chermoula sauce, blend plain yogurt with a generous amount of the classic chermoula mixture. The yogurt adds a creamy texture and a slightly tangy note that balances out the robust flavors of the herbs and spices.

To serve, drizzle the yogurt chermoula generously over the hot skewers or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of brightness.

Herbed salmon skewers with yogurt chermoula are perfect for a summer gathering or a special dinner at home. They also taste delicious next day as leftovers. The combination of tender salmon, smoky grilled vegetables, and creamy yogurt chermoula creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

This recipe is versatile too – you can customize it by adding vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences. The yogurt chermoula itself can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer it more tangy, spicy, or herb-forward.

So, if you're ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a meal that celebrates the flavors of summer, give herbed salmon skewers with yogurt chermoula a try. It's a dish that promises to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with every delightful bite.

Herbed Salmon Skewers with Yogurt Chermoula
Yield 3
Author
Prep time
30 Min
Cook time
20 Min
Inactive time
30 Min
Total time
1 H & 20 M

Herbed Salmon Skewers with Yogurt Chermoula

When it comes to delightful culinary adventures, few dishes offer the blend of freshness and robust flavors quite like herbed salmon skewers with yogurt charmoula.

Ingredients

  • 2 thick salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into 1 inch chunks
  • 1 teaspoon toasted cumin seeds
  • 1.5 cups chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 minced clove of garlic
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon (if you do not like it so lemony, reduce amount by half)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup Greek plain yogurt
  • Skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for about 30 minutes)

Instructions

For the Chermoula Sauce
  1. In a blander (I use my small Ninja), combine the parsley, cilantro, cumin seeds, garlic, lemon juice and zest, cayenne pepper, and olive oil. Blend until you have a smooth consistency, almost like a paste.
  2. Set aside half of the sauce to marinate the salmon.
  3. To make the yogurt sauce, add the rest of the chermoula to 1 cup of plain yogurt, drizzle a bit of olive oil, and a small pinch of cayenne pepper. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
For the Salmon
  1. In a bowl, mix the salmon with the rest of the chermoula ingredients, ensuring the salmon is coated completely. Let it marinade for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. Once ready to cook (I like grilling in a stovetop cast iron grilled pan), thread the skewers through salmon chunks. I sprinkle some salt too.
  3. Grill the skewers on medium-high, rotating every 5 minutes, until all sides are cooked, and you see slight grilled marks.
  4. To serve, I put 2-3 skewers over some of the chermoula sauce. I love accompanying this with a romaine lettuce and some chopped cucumbers, which I use as "cups" for the salmon.

Film Review // The Taste of Things (La Passion de Dodin Bouffant)

I find that films centered around food are always so entrancing because they blend the sensory pleasures of food with compelling narratives and cultural exploration, making them uniquely captivating and enjoyable for audiences worldwide. It's been some time since a movie focused on food has fascinated me like this. In fact, not since The Hundred Foot Journey have I been so thoroughly impressed by a food-themed film.

Image Credit: The Taste of Things on Facebook

I finally watched the French film, The Taste of Things, and it was truly exquisite. Food films captivate us because they offer more than just visual and narrative pleasures—they engage our senses in ways that are uniquely immersive. It's a poignant tale of enduring love and loss, told through food. But the film also provided a profound sensory experience that left a lasting impression. And there were so many elements of the film that resonated with me—

• The absence of a traditional soundtrack caught me off guard because it is the first thing I notice about a film, but it turned out to be a brilliant choice. Instead of music, the film fills its audio with the sounds of the kitchen, nature, and conversations among the characters, immersing you deeply in the present moment. It felt like I was right there in the kitchen, witnessing everything firsthand.

• I adore films that appreciate the power of silence. Despite minimal dialogue, the film effectively communicates through its rich auditory and visual landscapes— the bustling sounds of the kitchen and the serene beauty of nature.

• The cinematography and editing were breathtaking, reminiscent of a vibrant culinary magazine brought to life. The food and locations were simply stunning. The film was primarily filmed in France in areas and settings that showcased the beauty and culinary culture of the country.

Image Credit: IFC Films

• It beautifully showcases the meticulous artistry of French cuisine, highlighting why it's so beloved. French cuisine is cherished worldwide for its meticulous attention to detail and methodical approach. Every dish is crafted with precision, reflecting centuries of culinary tradition and a deep reverence for ingredients. And this is where this film excels. I already was a devoted enthusiast of French cuisine, but the film reminded me why I love it so much.

Image Credit: IFC Films

Image Credit: IFC Films

Image Credit: IFC Films

• The casting, especially Juliet Binoche and Benoît Magimel, was spot-on. Their performances were perfect for the story, and their chemistry was palpable. What's more, the entire ensemble cast contributed to making this film truly special.

Image credit: Facebook

Image credit: Google

Image credit: Google

For anyone who appreciates food or gardens, this film is a must-watch. Even if you're neither, it will help you understand the passion behind these interests. If there is a must-watch film in 2024, it is this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5.