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Spinach Couscous Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Spinach Couscous recipe is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful side dish perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring pearl couscous cooked to al dente, then combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and tender spinach, it offers a wholesome balance of textures and savory notes in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Grains

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 cup pearl couscous
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Vegetables & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 10 ounces frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed to remove excess water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups water to a gentle boil. Add 1 cup pearl couscous and 1 tablespoon butter. Return to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes until al dente. Drain any remaining liquid and set couscous aside.
  2. Sauté the onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When the oil is hot, add 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened and translucent.
  3. Add garlic: Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic to the skillet with onions. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Incorporate spinach and seasonings: Stir in the thawed and squeezed 10 ounces of spinach along with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
  5. Combine couscous and spinach mixture: Add the cooked couscous to the skillet with spinach and vegetables. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt or pepper if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or light main.

Notes

  • Ensure to squeeze excess water from the thawed spinach to avoid a soggy dish.
  • For extra flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can be added before serving.
  • Use pearl couscous for the best texture; regular couscous will cook differently.
  • This dish can be made vegan by substituting butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter.