Prepare a flavorful, creamy couscous dish in a single pot using lemon and fresh herbs. This recipe is quick and requires minimal cleanup.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry pearl or Israeli couscous
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
Zest of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Salt and black pepper to taste
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 reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the milk, Parmesan cheese (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well until the mixture becomes creamy.
Cover the pot again and let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to fully absorb the liquid and set the creamy texture.
Fluff the couscous gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley and dill. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course.
Notes
For a vegan version, use unsweetened oat or soy milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice at the end.
You can substitute basil for dill if you prefer a different herb profile.