Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy vegetarian dinner that's both delicious and satisfying? Look no further! This pearl couscous recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delightful explosion of flavors. Pearl couscous, a type of pasta made from semolina, cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal base for a wide array of vegetarian dishes. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a vibrant and nutritious meal the whole family will love. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly impressive, perfect for showcasing your homemade cooking skills without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients: What You'll Need
This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 25 minutes to prepare and cook.
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Step 1: Cook the Couscous: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the pearl couscous, stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: While the couscous is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Combine and Season: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, parsley, mint, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve: Add the cooked pearl couscous to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- Don't overcook the couscous: Overcooked couscous will be mushy. Follow the cooking instructions carefully.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor and aroma to the dish. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs each.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add some cooked chickpeas, lentils, or crumbled feta cheese.
Delicious Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Curried Couscous: Stir in 1 tablespoon of curry powder with the vegetables for an aromatic and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This is an approximate value and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: Approximately 7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Fiber: Approximately 5g
This pearl couscous recipe is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious vegetarian meal. It's quick to make, adaptable to your tastes, and a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. This recipe fits easily into your plan for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!