Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts
Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts is a delicious and easy-to-make dish. This recipe combines fluffy couscous with fresh herbs and crunchy pine nuts, creating a perfect side dish or light main meal. It is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only tasty but also very versatile. You can serve it with grilled meats, fish, or as a vegetarian option. The fresh herbs add vibrant flavor, while the pine nuts give a nice crunch. It is a great way to incorporate more grains and nutrients into your meal.
How to Make Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Place couscous in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour the boiling water or broth over the couscous, cover it, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in the olive oil.
- In a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn golden and smell fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Stir the toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs into the couscous.
- Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and toss everything to combine.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course.
How to Serve Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts
Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts can be served alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. It also makes a great base for salads. Feel free to add your favorite protein for a complete meal.
How to Store Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts
To store any leftovers, place the couscous in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or serve it cold in salads.
Tips to Make Herbed Couscous with Pine Nuts
- Make sure to toast the pine nuts well for the best flavor.
- Use any fresh herbs you like; basil or chives also work well.
- For added flavor, consider adding garlic or shallots to the couscous.
Variation
You can add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and color.
FAQs
Can I use regular water instead of broth?
Yes, water works fine, but broth adds more flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and chilled in the refrigerator.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Instead of couscous, you can use quinoa or rice to make it gluten-free.
