Easy as pie: quick and savory israeli couscous with lemon

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with our tantalizing Israeli couscous recipe, infused with the zesty freshness of lemon. This culinary masterpiece combines the delicate texture of Israeli couscous with the aromatic notes of lemon, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Israeli couscous
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup chopped feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring Broth to a Boil: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add Couscous: Once boiling, add the Israeli couscous to the saucepan and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer: Cover the saucepan and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Fluff Couscous: Remove from heat and fluff the couscous with a fork.
5. Add Herbs and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the couscous with the parsley, mint, cilantro, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Lemon: Pour the olive oil over the couscous and stir to combine. Add the lemon zest and juice to taste.
7. Season: Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

A Refreshing Side or Main Course

Our Israeli couscous recipe with lemon is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course. Its fresh and flavorful profile pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is our Israeli couscous recipe with lemon a culinary delight, but it also offers several nutritional benefits:

• High in Fiber: Israeli couscous is a good source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full.
• Rich in Protein: This recipe incorporates feta cheese, which is a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Contains Antioxidants: The lemon in this recipe provides antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.

Variations and Substitutions

To customize your Israeli couscous recipe with lemon, consider these variations and substitutions:

• Use Different Herbs: Instead of parsley, mint, and cilantro, try using basil, oregano, or thyme.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, add chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Substitute Cheese: If you don’t have feta cheese, try using goat cheese or ricotta cheese.
• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, omit the feta cheese and use olive oil instead of butter.

Tips for Success

For the best results when making our Israeli couscous recipe with lemon, follow these tips:

• Rinse the Couscous: Before cooking, rinse the couscous under cold water to remove any excess starch.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will provide the most vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs, but use less as they are more concentrated.
• Taste and Adjust: As you make this recipe, taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Conclusion: A Culinary Journey to the Middle East

Our Israeli couscous recipe with lemon is a culinary invitation to the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. Its freshness, versatility, and nutritional value make it a dish that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Embrace the zest of lemon and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, warm it up in a microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use a different type of couscous?
A: Yes, you can use regular couscous or pearl couscous instead of Israeli couscous. However, the cooking time may vary.
Q: What can I serve with this recipe?
A: This recipe pairs well with grilled meats, fish, vegetables, or a side salad.