Best 20 Couscous Recipes

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Couscous is a versatile North African dish made from small steamed balls of semolina. It can be served as a side dish, a main course, or a salad. With its unique texture and nutty flavor, couscous has become a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, finding the best recipe for couscous can be a daunting task. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the right couscous recipe, considering factors such as cooking method, ingredients, and personal preferences. We will also provide tips and tricks for achieving the perfect couscous dish every time.

Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!

VEGETABLE COUSCOUS



Vegetable Couscous image

Looking for a different way to serve vegetables? These tiny pasta granules act like a magnet, pulling together the flavors of the chicken broth and vitamin-rich veggies. Carrots, celery, peppers and zucchini add fresh crunch and bright color.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 medium carrots
1/2 cup diced celery
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup julienned sweet yellow pepper
1/4 cup julienned sweet red pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium zucchini, diced
1/4 cup minced fresh basil or 4 teaspoons dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dash hot pepper sauce
1 cup uncooked couscous
1-1/2 cups chicken broth

Steps:

  • In a large skillet, saute the carrots, celery, onion and peppers in oil for 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add the next five ingredients. , Stir in couscous. Add broth; bring to a boil. Cover and remove from the heat; let stand for 5-8 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 272 calories, Fat 8g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 513mg sodium, Carbohydrate 43g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

ISRAELI COUSCOUS SALAD



Israeli Couscous Salad image

A fresh and light salad of Israeli couscous, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, spinach, and herbs drizzled with a tangy citrus dressing. Serve by itself or alongside your favorite protein.

Provided by The Natalie Method

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Spinach Pasta Salad

Time 1h35m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 17

1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium shallot, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Israeli couscous, uncooked
1 ¼ cups chicken stock
2 Persian cucumbers, sliced
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup quartered black olives
¼ cup sliced scallions
¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
¼ cup julienned fresh mint leaves
¼ cup julienned fresh basil leaves
lemon, zested and juiced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
salt and ground black pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Add dry couscous and saute until slightly toasted, 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in chicken stock and increase heat to high. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook until couscous is tender and all liquid has been absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for about 45 minutes.
  • While the couscous is cooling, mix lemon zest, lemon juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, and Dijon mustard together for the dressing in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.
  • Transfer cooled couscous to a serving bowl. Add cucumbers, spinach, tomatoes, olives, scallions , parsley, mint, and basil. Pour dressing over top and mix to incorporate.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 342 calories, Carbohydrate 45.7 g, Cholesterol 0.2 mg, Fat 16 g, Fiber 6.2 g, Protein 8 g, SaturatedFat 2.3 g, Sodium 635.8 mg, Sugar 3.2 g

MOROCCAN COUSCOUS



Moroccan Couscous image

This dish is great served with my Lamb Tagine and Cucumber Raita also on this site.

Provided by BenevolentEmpress

Categories     Side Dish     Vegetables     Squash     Summer Squash

Time 55m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 19

1 ¼ teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
¼ teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red onion, cut in half and thinly sliced
1 red, green, or yellow bell pepper, cut into 1" pieces
2 zucchinis, halved lengthwise and cut into 3/4 inch pieces
½ cup golden raisins
1 teaspoon kosher salt
grated zest of one orange
1 (14.5 ounce) can low sodium garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups chicken broth
½ cup orange juice
1 ½ cups couscous
3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Steps:

  • Place a large, heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Stir in the cumin, ginger, cloves, cayenne, cardamom, coriander, and allspice; gently toast until fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in oil and onion, cook until softened. Stir in the bell pepper, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the raisins, salt, zest, and garbanzos.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and orange juice; turn heat to high and bring to a boil. When the mixture is boiling, stir in the couscous and remove from heat; cover, and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and fold in chopped mint.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 245.6 calories, Carbohydrate 48.1 g, Fat 2.6 g, Fiber 5.2 g, Protein 8.4 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 263.3 mg, Sugar 9.6 g

CHICKEN WITH COUSCOUS



Chicken with Couscous image

A Mediterranean-flavored chicken and vegetable stew served over couscous. It's my all-time favorite, and it's delicious!

Provided by Julianne Ture

Categories     Meat and Poultry Recipes     Chicken     Chicken Breast Recipes     Skillet

Time 45m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup quick-cooking couscous
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into cubes
1 pinch ground black pepper
½ cup finely chopped jalapeno chile peppers
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1 ½ teaspoons grated fresh ginger root
1 ½ teaspoons curry powder
½ teaspoon ground coriander seed
1 teaspoon cornstarch

Steps:

  • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in couscous and 1 1/2 teaspoons of the olive oil. Turn off heat, cover, and let stand 10 minutes.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Stir in the chicken, season with pepper, and cook until no longer pink and juices run clear. Remove chicken from the skillet, and set aside.
  • Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Stir in the jalapeno peppers and carrot, and saute about 2 minutes. Mix in the zucchini, green onions, ginger, and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Continue to cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes.
  • In a small bowl, blend the remaining 1 cup chicken broth with curry powder, coriander, and cornstarch. Pour over the vegetables. Return chicken to the skillet. Continue cooking about 2 minutes until chicken is coated and the broth mixture begins to thicken. Serve over the couscous.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 414.8 calories, Carbohydrate 40.6 g, Cholesterol 75.2 mg, Fat 11.5 g, Fiber 4.2 g, Protein 35.8 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 176.6 mg, Sugar 2.9 g

SWEET AND NUTTY MOROCCAN COUSCOUS



Sweet and Nutty Moroccan Couscous image

I've simplified this recipe for Couscous Mesfouf without losing any of its deliciously complex flavor. Prepare all the mix-ins ahead of time and it takes only minutes to make. Enjoy!

Provided by Christina S.

Categories     100+ Everyday Cooking Recipes     Vegetarian     Side Dishes

Time 20m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 cups vegetable broth
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup chopped dates
⅓ cup chopped dried apricots
⅓ cup golden raisins
2 cups dry couscous
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ cup slivered almonds, toasted

Steps:

  • Pour the vegetable broth into a large saucepan, and bring to a boil. Add the butter, apricots, dates and raisins. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat, and stir in the couscous. Cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in the cinnamon and toasted almonds, and serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 442.1 calories, Carbohydrate 68.2 g, Cholesterol 25.4 mg, Fat 14.8 g, Fiber 6.4 g, Protein 10.5 g, SaturatedFat 6.5 g, Sodium 163.5 mg, Sugar 16.9 g

BLACK BEAN AND COUSCOUS SALAD



Black Bean and Couscous Salad image

This is a great salad for a buffet, with interesting textures and southwest flavors combined in one delicious salad. Leftovers store well refrigerated for several days.

Provided by Anonymous

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 35m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup uncooked couscous
1 ¼ cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon ground cumin
8 green onions, chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained
salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Bring chicken broth to a boil in a 2 quart or larger sauce pan and stir in the couscous. Cover the pot and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, vinegar and cumin. Add green onions, red pepper, cilantro, corn and beans and toss to coat.
  • Fluff the couscous well, breaking up any chunks. Add to the bowl with the vegetables and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve at once or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 253 calories, Carbohydrate 41.1 g, Fat 5.8 g, Fiber 9.7 g, Protein 10.3 g, SaturatedFat 0.8 g, Sodium 414.7 mg, Sugar 1.7 g

CHICKEN WITH COUSCOUS



Chicken with Couscous image

My sister shared this recipe, and it's been a hit with me, my husband and our friends ever since. After working all day, I love that this dish is fast to prepare. Plus, it's irresistibly bright and delicious. -Shari Ruffalo, Watertown, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

1-1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 package (5.8 ounces) roasted garlic and olive oil couscous
1 cup water
1 teaspoon plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 large tomato, seeded and chopped

Steps:

  • In a large saucepan, combine the broccoli, contents of the couscous seasoning packet, water and 1 teaspoon oil. Bring to a boil. Stir in couscous. Cover and remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes., Meanwhile, flatten chicken to 1/4-in. thickness. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Combine the lemon juice, garlic and oregano; rub over chicken. In a large skillet, brown chicken in remaining oil over medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until juices run clear. Stir tomato into the couscous; serve with chicken.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 357 calories, Fat 12g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 63mg cholesterol, Sodium 711mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

SUMMER GARDEN COUSCOUS SALAD



Summer Garden Couscous Salad image

This couscous salad makes the most of summer's bounty. I used to prepare it with a mayonnaise dressing, but lightened it with lemon vinaigrette. It's even better now! -Priscilla Yee, Concord, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch     Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 9 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

3 medium ears sweet corn, husks removed
1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 cup uncooked couscous
1 medium cucumber, halved and sliced
1-1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped red onion
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Place corn in a Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil; cover and cook for 6-9 minutes or until tender. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Stir in couscous. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 5-10 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly., In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, cheese, onion and parsley. Drain corn and immediately place in ice water. Drain and pat dry; cut the kernels from the cobs. Add to cucumber mixture. Stir in couscous., In a small bowl, whisk the oil, lemon juice and seasonings. Pour over couscous mixture; toss to coat. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Nutrition Facts :

COUSCOUS WITH OLIVES AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO



Couscous with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomato image

A delicate, flavorful dish that will satisfy vegans and carnivores alike! Inspired by my family's deep Coptic Orthodox Christian tradition, this is a great meal alternative during strict fasting times. It contains no animal products or fats, but has enough flavor and visual impact to make you feel like you're not sacrificing a thing! I hope you will enjoy this recipe. Add chicken or prawns to make this vegan dish a carnivorous delight!

Provided by Erin C. David

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     African     North African     Egyptian

Time 50m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 ¼ cups vegetable broth
1 ¼ cups water
2 cups pearl (Israeli) couscous
1 pinch salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
½ cup pine nuts
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, minced
½ cup sliced black olives
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
1 cup vegetable broth
¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Steps:

  • Bring 1 1/4 cup vegetable broth and water to a boil in a saucepan, stir in couscous, and mix in salt and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer until liquid is absorbed, about 8 minutes.
  • Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; stir in pine nuts and cook, stirring frequently, until pine nuts smell toasted and are golden brown, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
  • Heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan; cook and stir garlic and shallot in the hot oil until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir black olives and sun-dried tomatoes into garlic mixture and cook until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often. Slowly pour in 1 cup vegetable broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until sauce has reduced, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Transfer couscous to a large serving bowl, mix with sauce, and serve topped with parsley and pine nuts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 527.7 calories, Carbohydrate 55.5 g, Fat 29.3 g, Fiber 5.4 g, Protein 13 g, SaturatedFat 4.1 g, Sodium 455.1 mg, Sugar 2.9 g

EASY CURRY COUSCOUS



Easy Curry Couscous image

This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to lamb chops or any grilled seafood. It's light and refreshing and very easy to make!

Provided by Janis P.

Categories     Side Dish     Curry Side Dish Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 ½ cups couscous
3 cups chicken stock
1 tablespoon curry powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ cup raisins
1 bunch cilantro, chopped
½ cup slivered almonds, toasted

Steps:

  • Pour couscous into a bowl. Mix chicken stock, curry powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and raisins in a saucepan and bring to a boil; remove from heat. Pour the boiling liquid over the couscous. Seal the bowl with plastic wrap and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork. Top with cilantro and almonds.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 269 calories, Carbohydrate 39.4 g, Cholesterol 0.4 mg, Fat 9.8 g, Fiber 3.6 g, Protein 7.1 g, SaturatedFat 1.1 g, Sodium 1130.9 mg, Sugar 9 g

SALMON AND COUSCOUS SALAD WITH CUCUMBER-FETA DRESSING



Salmon and Couscous Salad With Cucumber-Feta Dressing image

The dressing in this 30-minute recipe is inspired by green goddess dressing and mast-o khiar, a Persian side dish of cucumbers and yogurt. Here, thick yogurt is combined with fresh herbs, tangy feta and crunchy Persian cucumbers. If you have trouble finding Persian cucumbers, they can be swapped for similarly sweet-skinned English cucumbers or peeled regular cucumbers. Flaking the salmon into the salad evenly distributes it and is a nice alternative to serving a fillet for dinner. Leftover salad can be enjoyed cold for lunch the next day, freshened up with a squeeze of lime juice and more fresh herbs.

Provided by Yasmin Fahr

Categories     brunch, dinner, lunch, salads and dressings, seafood, main course

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

3 (6-ounce) skin-on (or skinless) salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
2 limes, 1 halved and 1 zested and juiced
1 1/2 cups pearl couscous
1 1/2 cups baby arugula
1 cup thick, full-fat yogurt, such as Greek, Skyr or labneh
1/2 cup crumbled feta
1/4 packed cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, cilantro or dill leaves and tender stems, roughly chopped
1/4 packed cup fresh mint leaves and tender stems, roughly chopped
1 Persian cucumber, diced into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3/4 cup)
2 scallions, light green and white parts sliced

Steps:

  • Heat the oven to 400 degrees. In the center of a sheet pan, place salmon skin-side down. Pat the salmon dry, then coat with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cumin and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. Coat 1 of the lime halves in some of the olive oil in the pan, then place cut-side up in the corner.
  • Roast the salmon on the center rack until opaque on the outside and light pink in the center, about 18 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  • While the salmon roasts, make the couscous: In a lidded pot over medium-high heat, toast the couscous, uncovered, stirring until fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add 3 cups water, season with salt, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to maintain an active simmer, then cook until the couscous is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the couscous in a colander, then drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat. Stir in the arugula, letting it wilt. Leave in the sink to cool slightly while you make the dressing.
  • Prepare the dressing: In a serving bowl, combine the yogurt with 1/4 cup room temperature water and the zest and juice of 1 lime, then whisk until smooth. Add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin, plus 1/4 cup feta, most of the herbs (reserving some for garnish) and the cucumber. Stir to combine, then season to taste with salt. Set aside.
  • Add the cooked couscous and arugula to the yogurt mixture, tossing to combine. Remove the salmon from the skin, then flake with a fork. Add half the salmon to the couscous, mixing it together. Place the remaining salmon on top, squeeze the roasted lime half over the dish, then garnish with the scallions, remaining feta, parsley and mint. Quarter the remaining lime half and serve it on the side.

COUSCOUS SALAD WITH TOMATOES AND MINT



Couscous Salad with Tomatoes and Mint image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     side-dish

Time 20m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 cups (about 1 1/2 pints) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 kirby cucumbers, seeded, and diced
1 lemon, juiced
3 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 cups instant couscous (a 10-ounce box)
2 cups water
2 wide strips lemon zest
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Pinch cayenne
1/2 cup torn mint leaves, stems saved
1/2 cup roughly chopped flat leaf parsley, stems saved
3 scallions (white and green), chopped
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts, optional

Steps:

  • Toss the tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon juice in a bowl with 2 teaspoons of the salt. Set aside.
  • Put the couscous into a large bowl. Bring the water, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons of the oil, the remaining salt, cayenne, and herb stems to a boil over high heat. Pour the liquid over the couscous, stir to separate any clumps. Cover with a lid, plate, or plastic wrap, set aside for 5 minutes. Remove the zest and herb stems and fluff with a fork.
  • Add the tomato mixture, scallions, mint, parsley, and pine nuts. Drizzle the remaining oil over the salad, toss and serve.
  • Copyright 2003 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved

ISRAELI COUSCOUS WITH APPLES, CRANBERRIES AND HERBS



Israeli Couscous with Apples, Cranberries and Herbs image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Categories     side-dish

Time 35m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups Israeli couscous (or barley or orzo)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 medium green apple, diced
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted, see Cook's Note
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil

Steps:

  • For the couscous: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil on medium-high heat. Add the couscous and cook, stirring occasionally until slightly browned and aromatic, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 to12 minutes or until the liquid has evaporated. Transfer the cooked couscous to a large bowl and set aside to cool. Add the parsley, rosemary, thyme, apple, dried cranberries, and almonds.
  • For the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the olive oil until smooth. Pour the vinaigrette over the couscous and toss to coat evenly.

PEARL COUSCOUS SALAD



Pearl Couscous Salad image

This is a take-off of a pricey deli salad that my family loves. Using ingredients at home, it is much more affordable so we can enjoy it more often. Store salad in the fridge, covered, for up to a week.

Provided by Susan

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 8h50m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 19

5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups pearl (Israeli) couscous
2 ½ cups water
½ cup French lentils
water to cover
2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
1 small cucumber, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup golden raisins
⅓ cup diced red onion
¼ cup 1/2-inch slices of fresh chives
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley, or more to taste
1 green onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon ground sumac
¼ cup olive oil
2 lemons, juiced
2 tablespoons honey, or more to taste
salt and ground black pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir couscous in the hot oil until toasted and fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes. Add 2 1/2 cups water to couscous and bring to a boil; cover skillet and cook until couscous is tender, about 10 minutes. Rinse couscous in a colander with cold water and transfer to a bowl. Mix 1/4 cup olive oil into couscous and stir to coat.
  • Place lentils in a small pan and cover with water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until lentils are tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and rinse lentils under cold water in a colander; add to couscous.
  • Mix tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, cranberries, raisins, red onion, chives, parsley, green onion, and sumac into couscous-lentil mixture.
  • Beat 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper together in a bowl; pour over couscous-lentil mixture and stir until coated. Refrigerate salad for flavors to blend, 8 hours to overnight.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 560.3 calories, Carbohydrate 82.2 g, Fat 21 g, Fiber 9.9 g, Protein 12.7 g, SaturatedFat 2.9 g, Sodium 42.8 mg, Sugar 22 g

LEMON HERB CHICKEN WITH COUSCOUS AND CUCUMBER SALAD



Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous and Cucumber Salad image

Chicken breasts dressed with lemon and herbs are served with couscous and a bright cucumber feta salad in this weeknight dinner recipe.

Provided by Julie Hubert

Categories     Meat and Poultry Recipes     Chicken     Chicken Breast Recipes     Pasta

Time 46m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 17

2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
1 (10 ounce) box couscous
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 lemons, juiced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 teaspoon dried oregano
4 (4 ounce) thinly sliced skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 pinch sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon white sugar
2 large vine-ripened tomatoes
1 English cucumber, chopped
¼ red onion, finely chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
⅓ cup chopped pitted Kalamata olives
¼ cup chopped Italian parsley

Steps:

  • Bring chicken broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in couscous. Remove from heat; cover and let stand until broth is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.
  • Whisk 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, and oregano together in a bowl to make dressing.
  • Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Drizzle 1/4 cup dressing on top. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts; cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a large plate. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  • Place 3 tablespoons dressing in a large bowl; stir in sugar. Add tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion; toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Add feta cheese and toss again.
  • Drizzle remaining dressing over couscous and fold in olives. Divide couscous among 4 plates. Slice chicken breasts and place on top. Serve tomato salad on the side. Sprinkle parsley over each plate.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 810.2 calories, Carbohydrate 68.4 g, Cholesterol 84.3 mg, Fat 42.2 g, Fiber 5.8 g, Protein 37.8 g, SaturatedFat 8.5 g, Sodium 1566.8 mg, Sugar 7.2 g

ROASTED VEGGIES WITH COUSCOUS



Roasted Veggies with Couscous image

Light fluffy couscous with a touch of olive oil with roasted veggies. Dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A great vegetarian dish. A delight, summer or winter.

Provided by 747

Categories     Fruits and Vegetables     Vegetables     Squash

Time 40m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 large zucchini, thickly sliced
4 ounces button mushrooms, quartered
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups couscous
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Steps:

  • Preheat your grill to a high heat, outdoor or indoor.
  • Brush vegetables lightly with olive oil, and place them on the grill. Cook, flipping over occasionally, until just tender.
  • While the vegetables are grilling, bring water, salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and couscous to boil in a large pot. Once the water has come to a boil, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork when done. Let couscous cool to room temperature.
  • Place couscous on a plate and top with veggies. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and Balsamic vinegar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 224 calories, Carbohydrate 36.8 g, Fat 5.5 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 6.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.8 g, Sodium 301.4 mg, Sugar 2.1 g

QUICK CHICKEN COUSCOUS



Quick Chicken Couscous image

Take a break from pasta, rice, and potatoes with this quick chicken couscous bowl. Made with chicken breast (or thighs, or even leftover chicken!) and diced veggies of your choice, it's an impressive meal that takes just minutes to make once all the ingredients are prepped. The chicken is moist and tender, the couscous is light yet satisfying, and the veggies add color, flavor, and texture. It can be eaten at any temperature and would be perfect to pack for a picnic.

Provided by Chef John

Time 40m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 19

1 ¼ cups whole wheat couscous
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 (8 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast half
1 pinch kosher salt to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil, or more to taste
½ cup diced red onion
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup diced zucchini
½ cup diced green beans
½ cup diced red bell pepper
¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf (Italian) parsley, or to taste
2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese, or to taste
1 pinch chili flakes

Steps:

  • Place couscous in a heat-proof mixing bowl. Add salt, pepper, cayenne, and olive oil; stir with a spoon until all couscous is coated with oil. Level off to smooth the top and set aside.
  • Season chicken on both sides with salt.
  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over high heat. Add chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on one side. Flip and add onions. Sear chicken on second side, while sauteing onions at the same time, for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Remove chicken to a plate and let cool for a few minutes. Cut chicken into 1/2-inch cubes and return to the saucepan.
  • Add chicken broth, zucchini, green beans, bell pepper, green onions, paprika, and turmeric to the saucepan. Place over high heat. As soon as it boils, remove from the heat and carefully dump it on top of the couscous; do not stir. Immediately wrap bowl tightly with foil and set a timer for 5 minutes.
  • When timer goes off, unwrap foil and toss in parsley. Stir to combine ingredients. Taste and adjust for salt.
  • Spoon couscous onto serving plate and garnish with feta cheese, chili flakes, and parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 966 calories, Carbohydrate 125 g, Cholesterol 70 mg, Fat 34.7 g, Fiber 21.3 g, Protein 46.3 g, SaturatedFat 5.9 g, Sodium 1428.6 mg, Sugar 5.7 g

CHICKEN & VEGETABLE CURRY COUSCOUS



Chicken & Vegetable Curry Couscous image

For my busy family, a partly homemade one-pot meal is the best way to get dinner done in a hurry. Use your favorite blend of frozen veggies and serve with toasted pita bread for smiles all around. -Elizabeth Hokanson, Arborg, Manitoba

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 tablespoon butter
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 package (16 ounces) frozen vegetable blend of your choice
1-1/4 cups water
1 package (5.7 ounces) curry-flavored couscous mix
1/2 cup raisins

Steps:

  • In a cast-iron or other heavy skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir until no longer pink., Add vegetable blend, water and contents of couscous seasoning packet. Bring to a boil; stir in couscous and raisins. Remove from heat; let stand, covered, until water is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 273 calories, Fat 4g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 47mg cholesterol, Sodium 311mg sodium, Carbohydrate 39g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

CURRIED COUSCOUS SALAD WITH DRIED SWEET CRANBERRIES



Curried Couscous Salad with Dried Sweet Cranberries image

For a picnic, there's no way I'm going to pass on making couscous. Instant Couscous so easy, it's almost embarrassing. The only "cooking" involved is boiling some water. I love it! Of course, you need to add some flavor to the couscous, but that's not hard. When you spike it with curry powder, fresh herbs, and a splash of orange and lemon juice, no one will be complaining about blandness. This dish tastes great at room temperature, and that makes it a picnic no-brainer because you can make it hours ahead of time.

Provided by Dave Lieberman

Categories     main-dish

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 (5.8-ounce) box instant couscous
3/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 orange, juiced
2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 to 4 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced on an angle
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
1/2 lemon, juiced
3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Freshly ground pepper

Steps:

  • Stir the couscous, cranberries, curry powder, salt, and sugar together in a heatproof bowl. Bring water (amount will be listed on package directions) to a boil and pour it over the couscous. Add the orange juice. Give it a big stir, cover the bowl tightly and let it stand, giving it a big stir once or twice, until the water is absorbed and the couscous is tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Fluff up the couscous with a fork. Add the olive oil, scallions, parsley, lemon juice, and walnuts. Stir around until everything is distributed evenly throughout the couscous. Make up to 2 hours ahead of time and keep at room temperature until you're ready to serve. Check the seasonings just before you serve the salad and add salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Note: To toast the walnuts, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a 400 degree F oven until they turn a shade darker, about 8 minutes.

APRICOT COUSCOUS



Apricot Couscous image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Categories     side-dish

Time 27m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Extra-virgin olive oil
1 small red onion, small dice
1/4 cup dried apricots, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup whole almonds toasted, coarsely chopped
1 cup couscous
1 1/2 cups chicken stock, warm
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
2 scallions green parts only
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped plus leaves for garnish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • In a medium saucepan add a 2 count of extra-virgin olive oil. Add the red onion, apricots and almonds and saute gently over low heat until translucent and slightly fragrant. Add the couscous then dump in the warm chicken broth. Stir with a fork to combine, add lemon zest and cover. Let sit for 10 minutes, then uncover and add the scallions, mint, and cilantro. Fluff again with a fork. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  • Serve family-style on a large platter and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality couscous: Look for couscous made from durum wheat semolina, which has a slightly nutty flavor and holds its shape well.
  • Rinse the couscous before cooking: This helps to remove any excess starch and prevent the couscous from clumping.
  • Use the right amount of water: The general rule is to use 1 cup of water for every 1 cup of couscous.
  • Bring the water to a boil before adding the couscous: This helps to ensure that the couscous cooks evenly.
  • Cover the couscous while it cooks: This helps to trap the steam and create a light and fluffy texture.
  • Let the couscous rest for a few minutes before fluffing it: This allows the couscous to absorb all of the liquid and prevents it from becoming mushy.
  • Fluff the couscous with a fork: This helps to separate the grains and create a light and airy texture.
  • Season the couscous to taste: You can add salt, pepper, herbs, spices, or other seasonings to your liking.

Conclusion:

Couscous is a versatile and delicious grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and other nutrients. Whether you are making a simple side dish or a more elaborate main course, couscous is a great option. With its quick cooking time and mild flavor, it is a perfect choice for busy weeknight meals or special occasions alike.

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