Easy and delicious: lemon herb couscous recipe for a quick and satisfying meal

Lemon herb couscous is a delightful and aromatic side dish that will elevate any meal. With its zesty lemon flavor and fragrant herbs, this couscous is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or vegetables. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps of creating this vibrant and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked couscous
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, combine the couscous and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
2. Fluff the Couscous: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff the couscous with a fork.
3. Add the Herbs: In a large bowl, combine the chopped fresh parsley, mint, cilantro, and basil.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the couscous and toss to combine. Add the chopped herbs and stir until well incorporated.
6. Season to Taste: Taste the couscous and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more lemon juice, zest, salt, or pepper to your preference.
7. Serve: Serve the lemon herb couscous warm as a side dish.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: To add more color and nutrition, sauté some chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini before adding them to the couscous.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Try using thyme, oregano, or rosemary.
• Add Spices: For a hint of warmth, add a pinch of ground cumin, coriander, or paprika to the dressing.
• Make it a Main Dish: Add grilled chicken, fish, or tofu to the couscous to make it a complete meal.

Tips

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will provide the most vibrant flavor. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half.
• Don’t Overcook the Couscous: Couscous cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it mushy.
• Let the Couscous Rest: After cooking, let the couscous rest for a few minutes before fluffing it. This will allow it to absorb more of the dressing.

Benefits of Lemon Herb Couscous

Lemon herb couscous is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits:

• Whole Grains: Couscous is made from whole wheat semolina, providing fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
• Antioxidants: The herbs used in this recipe are rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage.
• Vitamin C: Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.
• Low Fat: This dish is low in fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon herb couscous pairs well with a variety of dishes, including:

• Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Fish: It complements salmon, tuna, or swordfish.
• Vegetables: Pair it with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
• Salads: Add it to salads for a flavorful and nutritious touch.

Summary

Lemon herb couscous is a versatile and delicious side dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Its zesty and aromatic nature will complement any meal, making it a perfect choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Try this recipe today and experience the vibrant flavors of this delightful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant couscous for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use instant couscous. Reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes.
Q: What can I substitute for fresh herbs?
A: If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs per 1/4 cup of fresh herbs.
Q: How do I store leftover lemon herb couscous?
A: Store leftover couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.