Zesty Lemon Herb Couscous

Zesty Lemon Herb Couscous

Couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, shines in this zesty lemon herb version, bringing a burst of fresh flavors to your table. This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile, serving as a delightful side or a light main course when paired with the right accompaniments.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add olive oil and salt, then stir in the couscous. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

2. Fluff the Couscous: Use a fork to fluff the couscous and separate the grains.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, dill, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the fluffy couscous to the bowl and mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors.

4. 

   Add Feta and Adjust Seasoning: If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.

5. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional herbs or lemon slices if desired.

Nutritious Value

Zesty Lemon Herb Couscous is a wonderful source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day. The fresh herbs offer vitamins A and C, while the olive oil adds a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats. Adding feta cheese can increase protein and calcium content, making this a balanced and nutritious dish.

Best Pairings

For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this couscous with a light, refreshing salad such as a cucumber-tomato salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. Grilled chicken or fish make excellent protein accompaniments. As for beverages, this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, cold white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy herbal tea, complementing the zesty notes of the couscous.

Enjoy discovering the vibrant flavors of the Zesty Lemon Herb Couscous as it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire!