why make this recipe
This Delightful Pearled Couscous Dish is a wonderful and easy meal that is full of flavor and nutrition. It uses hearty vegetables and bright lemon juice to create a light yet satisfying dish. Plus, pearled couscous is super quick to cook, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. This dish is also versatile and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, perfect for any occasion.
how to make Delightful Pearled Couscous Dish
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearled couscous
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer. Stir in the pearled couscous and cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender yet slightly chewy.
- While the couscous is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Then add bell peppers and zucchini; sauté until softened but still crisp.
- Drain excess liquid from cooked couscous if necessary, then combine it with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
- Pour in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to mix without mashing the couscous. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
how to serve Delightful Pearled Couscous Dish
You can serve this pearled couscous dish as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty salad. For a special touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese. This dish can also be enjoyed as a light lunch or part of a picnic spread.
how to store Delightful Pearled Couscous Dish
Store any leftover dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, you can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
tips to make Delightful Pearled Couscous Dish
- Make sure not to overcook the couscous. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to customize the dish to your taste.
- For added flavor, you can toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite spices during cooking.
variation (if any)
You can easily customize this dish by adding proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling meal. For a creamy version, try mixing in some cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
FAQs
Q: Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?
A: Yes, you can use water, but using vegetable broth adds more flavor to the dish.
Q: Is pearled couscous gluten-free?
A: No, pearled couscous is made from wheat and contains gluten. You can use gluten-free couscous or quinoa as an alternative.
Q: How can I make this dish vegan?
A: This recipe is already vegan since it contains no animal products. Just make sure to use vegetable broth and check any extra ingredients you might add.