Make this simple, flavorful couscous dish entirely in one pot for fast cooking and minimal cleanup. It features a creamy texture with bright lemon and fresh herbs.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:3 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry couscous (not instant)
1 3/4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the dry couscous and toast for 1 minute.
Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during simmering.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Keep it covered and let it stand for 5 minutes.
Uncover the pan. Fluff the couscous gently with a fork.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the mixture becomes creamy.
Fold in the fresh parsley and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with 1/2 cup of whole milk and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water, added just before the final stirring.
Use any combination of fresh herbs you like, such as thyme or chives, instead of dill.
This dish works well as a light main course or a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.