Couscous with cheese is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe combines pearl couscous, creamy cheese, and savory ingredients to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients like unsalted butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, diced pimentos, cayenne pepper, shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, fresh chives, salt, and pepper, I can whip up this delectable dish in no time.
What Is Couscous?
Couscous is a staple food in many North African countries. It’s made from semolina wheat granules formed into tiny particles and then steamed. The result is a light, fluffy dish with a subtly nutty flavor.
You can have it plain, or add various ingredients to enhance its taste. Here are a few common types of couscous:
- Traditional couscous: Often comes from Morocco and has a fine texture.
- Israeli or pearl couscous: Larger and looks like small pasta, providing a different mouthfeel.
- Whole wheat couscous: Offers a healthier option, retaining more fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of pearl couscous (aka Israeli couscous)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- ½ cup of heavy cream
- ¼ cup of diced red peppers
- 1 pinch of cayenne pepper
- 3 oz of shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp of chopped fresh chives
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
How to make couscous with cheese?
- To begin, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the couscous and stir for 2-3 minutes until it is lightly toasted.
- Next, pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until most of the broth is absorbed about 6-7 minutes. This will make the couscous plump.
- Stir in heavy cream and diced pimentos. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, adding more broth if needed.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts. Stir in chopped chives for flavor, then season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Ideas
I like to use a large, colorful serving bowl for a delightful presentation. This allows the fluffy couscous to stand out against a backdrop of bright colors. I often sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or mint on top for a pop of green.
Using a zest of lemon or lime adds a refreshing touch. Sometimes, I layer ingredients in a clear dish to highlight the textures and colors. Serving with attractive utensils, such as wooden spoons or minimalistic serving forks, can enhance the visual appeal even further.
I also like to use individual serving bowls, especially for dinner parties. This creates an inviting ambiance, and guests appreciate the personal touch.
Side Dishes
A simple green salad filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette works well as a side dish. The crisp veggies add freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese.
Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, provide a smoky flavor. I often season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to enhance their natural sweetness.
Another option is a protein side, like grilled chicken or lamb. The richness of the meat pairs beautifully with the couscous, creating a satisfying meal. You can also serve warm pita bread or flatbreads to add texture and make the meal even more enjoyable.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool Down: I let the couscous cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This step prevents condensation and sogginess.
- Use Airtight Containers: I place the couscous in airtight containers. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Label and Date: I always label the container with the date. This way, I know how long it has been stored.
- Refrigeration: I keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them.
- Freezing: For freezing, I portion the couscous into individual servings. This makes it easy to thaw only what I need later.
When reheating, I make sure to add a splash of water. This helps prevent the couscous from drying out. I enjoy it warm, so I usually use the microwave or stovetop for this.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 31 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Fat | 21 grams |
| Cholesterol | 72 mg |
| Sugar | 1 gram |
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Dish
1. Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality couscous and cheese that melts well, like feta or mozzarella. Fresh ingredients make a difference.
3. Don’t Skimp on Flavor: Adding herbs like parsley or mint can elevate the taste. I often season the cooking water with a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil.
4. Fluff It Up: After the couscous has absorbed the liquid, let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. Then, I use a fork to fluff it gently. This prevents clumping.
5. Mix in Cheese: I like to add cheese while the couscous is still warm. This allows the cheese to melt slightly, creating a creamy texture.
6. Add Texture: For a crunchy addition, try toasted nuts or seeds. Pine nuts or almonds work wonderfully and add a nice contrast.
7. Serve Immediately: Couscous is best served right after preparing. Keeping it warm maintains the texture and flavors.
Conclusion
Couscous with cheese is a delightful dish that I often enjoy for its creamy texture and satisfying flavor. Combining tender couscous with your favorite cheese creates a comforting meal.
I like how versatile this dish is. You can experiment with various cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or cheddar. Each type brings its unique taste.
Adding vegetables or herbs enhances the dish further. Ingredients like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or parsley can introduce fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
Whether served as a side or a main course, couscous with cheese never disappoints. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for any occasion. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy days.
As mentioned above, pita bread is great for scooping up the cheese couscous.
Get this zaatar pita recipe now ( by clicking the image below):
