I recently had the pleasure of dining at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Indianapolis with a client. As someone who loves trying new foods, I was excited to see couscous with roasted vegetables on the menu. Furthermore, the dish was described as a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option, and I couldn’t wait to give it a try.
When our food arrived, I the vibrant colors and aromas of the dish immediately struck me. The couscous was perfectly cooked and served with an array of roasted vegetables, including peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. As I took my first bite, I was impressed by the depth of flavor and the way the spices and herbs complemented the vegetables and couscous. It was a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
As I sat down at the restaurant, a young Middle Eastern waitress approached our table with a warm smile. We asked her about the couscous with roasted vegetables as a side dish to accompany our meal and she recommended it wholeheartedly. Therefore, we placed our order.
The dish arrived shortly after, and I was pleasantly surprised by its presentation. The couscous was fluffy and light, with a beautiful golden color. The roasted vegetables – bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant – were arranged in a colorful medley, adding a burst of flavor and texture to the dish.
As I took my first bite, the depth of flavor struck me. The couscous was perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of salt and herbs. The vegetables were tender and juicy, with a slight char that added a smoky flavor to the dish.
What I loved most about this couscous dish was its versatility. You can have it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a main course with the addition of some protein. Plus, it was a healthy and nutritious option, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Overall, I was impressed by the dish and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy option.
As I was enjoying my couscous, I heard a loud commotion coming from the table next to me. Suddenly, one of the customers accidentally spilled their drink on another customer. It was a bit of a messy situation, but the staff quickly came to the rescue with some towels and a replacement drink.
After enjoying my meal, I knew I had to have the recipe. Once the commotion settled, I asked the chef if he would be willing to share it with me. To my surprise, he agreed!
The recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: Roma tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, couscous, vegetable broth, and parsley
When I make this side dish, I always like to pair it with a delicious main course. Here are some of my favorite dishes that go well with this side dish:
- Grilled chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of couscous. I like to marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
- Baked fish: A light and flaky fish, such as cod or tilapia, is a great option to balance out the heartiness of the couscous. I like to season the fish with lemon, garlic, and herbs, and bake it in the oven until it’s cooked through.
- Lamb chops: If you’re looking for a more indulgent option, lamb chops are a great choice. The rich flavor of the lamb pairs well with the earthy flavors of the roasted vegetables and couscous.
- Chickpea stew: For a hearty and filling main course, I like to serve couscous with a chickpea stew. I sauté onions, garlic, and spices, then add canned chickpeas, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Simmer until the stew is thick and flavorful.
No matter what main course you choose, this couscous is a versatile and delicious side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 red onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 zucchini
- 4 Roma tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 pinches of salt and pepper
- 2 cups of couscous
- 3 cups of vegetable broth
- 1/4 bunch of parsley
I always make sure to use fresh, high-quality vegetables when making this dish. The Roma tomatoes add a nice sweetness to the dish, while the zucchini and bell pepper provide a nice crunch and texture. The red onion and garlic add a nice depth of flavor, and the parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note.
I recommend using good-quality olive oil to roast the vegetables, as it adds a nice richness and depth of flavor to the dish. The couscous should be cooked in vegetable broth, which gives it a nice savory flavor.
Overall, these ingredients come together to create a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Couscous with Roasted Vegetables?
- As a start, preheat the oven to 400ºF. Next, proceed to wash and dice the tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. Additionally, peel four cloves of garlic, ensuring they remain whole.
- Next, toss the vegetables and garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spread out. To add flavor, sprinkle a couple of pinches of salt and pepper over the vegetables.
- Place the vegetables in the oven and roast them at 400ºF for approximately 45 minutes, stirring twice in between, until they become tender, wilted, and acquire a golden-brown edge.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook the couscous. Add the vegetable broth to a saucepot, place a lid on top, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the couscous, turn off the heat, and cover the pot with the lid once again. Allow the couscous to rest undisturbed for ten minutes, then use a fork to fluff it up.
- Once the vegetables have completed roasting, gather the four garlic cloves and finely chop them. They will be tender and easy to work with. Additionally, roughly chop the fresh parsley.
- Finally, In a bowl, mix together the couscous, roasted vegetables (with the garlic), and parsley, ensuring they are well combined. Season with more salt and pepper if desired. This dish can be served warm or cold.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving couscous with roasted vegetables, there are a few different options to consider. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
1. Top with Fresh Herbs
One of the simplest ways to add some extra flavor to your couscous is to top it with fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil can all be great options, depending on your personal taste preferences. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the top of the couscous and vegetables before serving.
2. Add a Protein
While this couscous dish can be a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own, you can also add protein to make it more filling. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all great options. You could even add some chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based protein boost.
3. Serve with a Sauce
Another way to add some extra flavor to your couscous is to serve it with a sauce. A simple tahini sauce or yogurt sauce can be a great complement to roasted vegetables and couscous. You could also try a spicy harissa sauce for some extra heat.
4. Make it a Salad
If you want to turn your couscous with roasted vegetables into a salad, simply add some greens! Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens can all be great options. Toss the couscous and vegetables with the greens and a simple vinaigrette for a fresh and flavorful salad.
No matter how you choose to serve it, it’s sure to be a delicious and satisfying meal. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to find your favorite combination!
Storage and Reheating Tips
When it comes to storing, it’s essential to follow the right steps to ensure it stays fresh and tasty. Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your couscous with roasted vegetables:
- Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you know when you made it.
- Reheating: To reheat it, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat it in the oven by placing it in a baking dish and covering it with foil. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Adding moisture: If your couscous is dry after reheating, you can add a little bit of water or vegetable broth to it. This will help to add moisture and prevent it from becoming too dry.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your couscous stays fresh and delicious, even when reheated.
Variations of Couscous with Roasted Vegetables
This couscous dish is a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are some variations that I enjoy:
- Mediterranean-style: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and Kalamata olives to the couscous and roasted vegetable mixture. Drizzle with a lemon and olive oil dressing.
- Moroccan-style: Add raisins, chopped dates, and toasted almonds to the couscous and roasted vegetable mixture. Season with cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Serve with a dollop of harissa paste.
- Mexican-style: Add black beans, corn, and chopped cilantro to the couscous and roasted vegetable mixture. Top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Asian-style: Add sliced shiitake mushrooms, chopped scallions, and toasted sesame seeds to the couscous and roasted vegetable mixture. Drizzle with soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing.
These variations are just a starting point – feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique version of this delightful dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I highly recommend trying couscous with roasted vegetables. This dish is not only healthy and easy to make, but it is also delicious and satisfying. The combination of tender couscous and flavorful roasted vegetables creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can use any vegetables you like, depending on your personal preferences and what is in season. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile.
Another great thing about this dish is that it is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch of couscous at the beginning of the week and have healthy and delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. It is also a great option for lunch or dinner, as it is filling and satisfying without being heavy or overly rich.
Overall, it is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. Give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and satisfying it can be!
