Prepare a flavorful, creamy lemon herb couscous entirely in one pot for quick weeknight meals and simple cleanup.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:3 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small shallot, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry plain couscous
1 3/4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Zest of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
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 pot, and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Cover the pot again and let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to steam and become creamy.
Fluff the couscous gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley and chives.
Season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
Add 1 cup of frozen peas or chopped asparagus during the last 2 minutes of simmering for added vegetables.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice to 3 tablespoons.