Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ½ large lemon, juiced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, basil, oregano, finely chopped)
Instructions
- Toast the Couscous: In a small saucepan, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pearl couscous and toast it, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly browned and fragrant, about 2 minutes. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the couscous.
- Add Liquid: Pour in 1½ cups of chicken or vegetable broth into the saucepan with the toasted couscous. Cover the pan and increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once the broth reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, keeping the pan covered. Let the couscous simmer gently for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is fully absorbed and the couscous is tender.
- Season and Serve: Turn off the heat. Stir in the juice from half a lemon, an additional ½ tablespoon of olive oil if desired, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and the freshly chopped herbs. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a delicious accompaniment.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh herbs can be varied based on preference; mint or cilantro also work well.
- For extra zest, add lemon zest along with the juice.
- If the couscous absorbs broth too quickly, add a little more liquid during simmering to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
