Description
This easy lemon couscous recipe is a light and fluffy side dish that combines couscous with olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, pine nuts, and lemon juice for a fresh and vibrant flavor. Perfect for a quick and delicious accompaniment to many meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup couscous
- 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ⅓ cup minced fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, plus more for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Boil Water and Cook Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add 1 cup couscous, 1 teaspoon olive oil, and ½ teaspoon sea salt. Stir, cover, remove from heat, and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the water and soften.
- Fluff and Combine Ingredients: Fluff the cooked couscous gently with a fork to separate the grains. Transfer it to a large bowl and toss it with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, the remaining ¼ teaspoon sea salt, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced parsley, and 2 tablespoons pine nuts. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the lemon couscous mixture to a serving platter. Garnish with additional pine nuts, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Serve warm or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pine nuts lightly before adding.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for make-ahead meals.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the couscous with gluten-free couscous or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean