June 24, 2026 · 30 min

Crispy Barramundi with Chimichurri, Lemony Carrots and Garlic Herb Couscous

Side Dish30 min761 cal / serving

This dish brings together the bright, tangy flavors of chimichurri with perfectly crispy barramundi fillets. The herbaceous sauce-made with cilantro, garlic, lemon, cumin and chili flakes-adds a punchy kick that complements the delicate fish beautifully.

On the side, lemony roasted carrots and garlic herb butter couscous round out the meal with earthy sweetness and rich, savory notes. Every component works in harmony for a dinner that feels both special and approachable.


Recipe details

Side Dish30 min761 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories761 kcalProtein10.7 gFat48.1 gCarbs70.8 gSugar19.4 gFiber7.8 gSodium4827 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: containsShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Garlic1 clove GarlicView ingredient guide
Cilantro0.25 ounce CilantroView ingredient guide
Carrots12 ounce CarrotsView ingredient guide
Cumin1 teaspoon CuminView ingredient guide
Chili Flakes1 teaspoon Chili FlakesView ingredient guide
Israeli Couscous0.5 cup Israeli CouscousView ingredient guide
Barramundi10 ounce BarramundiView ingredient guide
Olive Oil10 teaspoon Olive OilView ingredient guide
Butter1 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust rack to top position and preheat oven to 425°F. Wash and dry all produce. Zest and quarter lemon. Peel and mince or grate garlic. Finely chop cilantro. Trim, peel and cut carrots on a diagonal into ½-inch-thick pieces.
  2. Toss carrots on a foil-lined baking sheet with a large drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast on top rack until golden brown and softened, 20-25 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine cilantro, half the cumin, half the lemon zest, juice from half the lemon, 2 TBSP olive oil and up to half the garlic to taste. Season with salt, pepper and chili flakes to taste.
  4. Heat a small pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 TBSP plain butter, couscous and remaining garlic. Cook, stirring often, until garlic is fragrant and couscous is lightly toasted, 1-2 minutes. Stir in ¾ cup water and stock concentrate. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook until al dente, 6-8 minutes. Keep covered off heat until ready to serve.
  5. Pat barramundi dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper and remaining cumin. Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in a large, preferably nonstick, pan over medium-high heat. Add barramundi and cook until fish is opaque and cooked through, 4-6 minutes per side. Turn off heat.
  6. Fluff couscous with a fork; stir in garlic herb butter and season with salt and pepper. Toss carrots with remaining lemon zest. Divide couscous, carrots and barramundi between plates. Top barramundi with chimichurri. Serve with remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

For extra crispy fish, make sure the barramundi is patted very dry before seasoning.

If you prefer a milder chimichurri, reduce the chili flakes to 1/2 teaspoon.

Israeli couscous can be substituted with regular couscous; adjust cooking time accordingly.

FAQ

Can I use a different fish instead of barramundi?

Yes, you can substitute barramundi with other firm white fish like cod, halibut or sea bass. Adjust cooking time as needed based on thickness.

What can I use instead of Israeli couscous?

You can use regular couscous, quinoa or orzo. If using regular couscous, follow package instructions as it cooks much faster.

Can I make the chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chimichurri can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.

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