Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a vibrant and zesty dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Look no further than this Lemony Couscous with Lots of Veggies! Bursting with the fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, this colorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a stunning side for your next gathering. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family and friends with a culinary masterpiece that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Dive into this delightful dish that celebrates seasonal veggies and the bright zing of lemon—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pour vegetable broth into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Remove boiling broth from heat, add couscous, stir quickly, cover the pan, and let stand for 5 minutes to allow couscous to absorb liquid completely.
- While couscous is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced zucchini and bell pepper to the skillet, sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and peas to the skillet, cook for additional 2 minutes.
- Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the couscous and gently mix together.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss all ingredients together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a light and refreshing Mediterranean-style dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies in advance and store them in the fridge to save time on busy evenings. You can also prepare the couscous ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- Broth Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the broth while it heats.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what you have on hand. Carrots, spinach, or even roasted eggplant can add unique flavors and textures.
- Lemon Zest: Don’t forget to add lemon zest along with the juice for an even more intense citrus flavor that will brighten the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish is delicious warm, but it also makes a fantastic cold salad. Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a refreshing lunch option.
- Garnish for Flair: Top your couscous with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or sprinkle some feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.
- Perfect Pairing: Pair this dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside hummus and pita for a Mediterranean feast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
