Delicious Vegetarian Couscous Recipe

Couscous is a versatile and quick-cooking grain that can be transformed into a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. Here are three flavorful vegetarian couscous recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any meal!

1. Veggie Couscous with Asparagus and Bell Peppers

This simple veggie couscous is packed with fresh vegetables and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried couscous
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 spears asparagus, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Cook the couscous according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add asparagus, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until tender (about 5–8 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in the cooked couscous and diced tomato.
4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

2. Moroccan Vegetable Couscous

This Moroccan-inspired dish is bursting with flavors from spices and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
• 600g assorted vegetables (carrots, cauliflower, zucchini)
• 300g couscous
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until tender (about 6–8 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic, spices, tomatoes, and water. Add hard vegetables first (like carrots and cauliflower), cover, and cook on low for about 40 minutes.
3. Add softer vegetables (like zucchini) and continue to cook for another 25–30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the couscous according to package instructions.
5. Serve the vegetable mixture over the couscous, garnished with fresh coriander.

3. Vegan Summertime Couscous Salad

This refreshing salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry pearl couscous
• 2 cucumbers, deseeded and diced
• ½ red onion, diced
• 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup chopped parsley
• Lemon Tahini Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous with cucumbers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

These vegetarian couscous recipes showcase the versatility of couscous while providing delicious flavors and textures. Whether you prefer a warm dish or a refreshing salad, these recipes are sure to please any palate! Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and spices to make these dishes your own!