Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that's ready in under 20 minutes? Look no further! This whole grain couscous recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a staple in any healthy meal plan. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginners in the kitchen and experienced cooks seeking a quick and satisfying dinner idea. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole grain couscous
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- ½ cup chopped cucumber
- ½ cup chopped cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Couscous
Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a small saucepan. Once boiling, pour the broth over the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for 5-7 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the couscous with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley into the cooked couscous. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the couscous immediately or chill for later. If using, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving. This delicious dish is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of the broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Consider using homemade broth for a richer, more flavorful experience.
- Don't overcook the couscous: Overcooked couscous can become mushy. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid letting it sit for too long after the liquid is absorbed.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils to the couscous.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Couscous: Add Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Couscous: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby Couscous: Experiment with different herbs such as mint, dill, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This healthy and delicious whole grain couscous recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for healthy meals throughout the week. The best recipes often come from simplicity, and this one delivers both flavor and ease. Enjoy!