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Lemon Herb Couscous Recipe

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3.8 from 10 reviews

This vibrant Lemon Herb Couscous is a quick and flavorful side dish perfect for complementing a variety of meals. Toasted pearl couscous is simmered in savory broth, then brightened with fresh basil, cilantro, and zesty lemon for a refreshing, herbaceous taste. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's an ideal easy-to-make dish with delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup pearl couscous
  • 1½ cups vegetable or low sodium chicken broth

Finishing

  • ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil and cilantro)
  • ½ lemon, zested and juiced
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Toast Couscous: Add the pearl couscous to the pot and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to evenly toast the grains and enhance their nutty flavor.
  3. Simmer Couscous: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the couscous is tender.
  4. Add Herbs and Lemon: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh chopped basil and cilantro, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Optionally, add ½ tablespoon of olive oil for extra richness. Mix well to combine all flavors.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm as a bright and flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • For a nutty flavor, make sure to toast the couscous before adding broth.
  • You can substitute the herbs with parsley or mint based on preference.
  • Use low sodium broth to better control the salt level in the dish.
  • Adding the optional olive oil at the end adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated within 2 days.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/lemon-herb-couscous-recipe/