Lemony Herb Couscous Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this Lemony Herb Couscous Delight. This dish features fluffy couscous paired with freshly chopped parsley, basil, and mint, all enhanced by the zesty brightness of lemon. It's a versatile side that complements a variety of meat dishes or can stand alone for a light vegetarian meal. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this updated recipe incorporates more garlic and lemon juice for a delightful punch of flavor. A nutritious option that's easy to prepare and packed with fresh herbs!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1 medium, (finely chopped)
extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons,
garlic cloves
3, (minced)
water
3/4 cup,
vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 1/4 cups (10 fl oz),
couscous
1 (10 ounce) box (1 1/2 cups),
fresh parsley
1/2 cup, (finely chopped)
fresh basil
1/2 cup, (finely chopped)
fresh mint
1/4 cup, (finely chopped)
fresh lemon juice
1-3 tablespoons, (to taste)
salt and pepper
to taste,
Instructions
1
In a medium-heavy saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over moderate heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until golden and soft.
2
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.
3
Gradually add the water and vegetable (or chicken) broth to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4
Once boiling, stir in the couscous, then cover the saucepan with a lid. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
5
After 5 minutes, carefully fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
6
Add the finely chopped parsley, basil, and mint to the couscous, followed by the fresh lemon juice, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to your desired taste.
7
Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve warm and enjoy this refreshing herbaceous dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemony Herb Couscous Delight?
It is a vibrant North African-inspired dish featuring fluffy couscous mixed with fresh parsley, basil, mint, and zesty lemon.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is a vegetarian dish, especially when prepared using vegetable broth.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a combination of fresh parsley, fresh basil, and fresh mint.
How long does it take to cook the onion?
The onion should be sautéed for about 3 minutes or until it becomes golden and soft.
What is the liquid to couscous ratio?
The recipe uses 2 cups of liquid (3/4 cup water and 1 1/4 cups broth) for 1 1/2 cups of couscous.
How do I ensure the couscous is fluffy?
After letting the couscous sit covered for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid, use a fork to gently fluff and separate the grains.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, the recipe allows for either vegetable broth or chicken broth depending on your preference.
How much garlic is included?
The recipe calls for 3 minced garlic cloves for a flavorful punch.
What type of olive oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for both sautéing the onion and finishing the dish.
How much lemon juice should I add?
You can add between 1 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, depending on your taste preference.
What is the preparation method for the herbs?
The parsley, basil, and mint should all be finely chopped before being added to the couscous.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is traditionally served warm, though it also works well as a refreshing herbaceous side dish for summer gatherings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total, including seasonings.
Can this be a main meal?
While it is a versatile side dish that complements meat, it can also stand alone as a light vegetarian meal.
What kind of saucepan should I use?
A medium-heavy saucepan is recommended for even heat distribution.
Do I boil the couscous on the stove?
No, you bring the liquid to a boil, stir in the couscous, and then remove it from the heat to sit covered.
How long should the garlic cook?
Garlic should be sautéed for only 30 seconds to prevent it from burning.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include couscous, herbs, lemon, North African, side dish, vegetarian, grains, and healthy.
How much couscous is needed?
One 10-ounce box, which is approximately 1 1/2 cups of dry couscous.
What is the texture of this dish?
The texture is light and fluffy with fresh, crisp herbal notes.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, the nutritional data indicates no sugar is added.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added according to your desired taste.
What is the origin of the flavors?
The flavors are inspired by North African cuisine.
How much basil is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh basil.
How much mint is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh mint.
When do I add the lemon juice?
Add the lemon juice at the end along with the fresh herbs and remaining olive oil.
What size should the onion be?
One medium onion, finely chopped, is required.
Does this dish contain cholesterol?
The recipe data suggests it is a cholesterol-free option, particularly if using vegetable broth.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-prepare and nutritious option.
How do I combine the final ingredients?
Toss all ingredients gently to combine them evenly without smashing the grains.