Couscous with Vegetables and Exotic Spices: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Couscous with Vegetables and Exotic Spices: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Couscous with Vegetables and Exotic Spices is a vibrant and colorful dish that combines the light, fluffy texture of couscous with a variety of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and herbs. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

Couscous:
– 1 cup couscous
– 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste

Vegetable Mix:
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 medium carrot, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Spice Mix:
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Garnish:
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add salt to taste.
2. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Cook the Vegetables:
1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped red onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the diced zucchini, carrot, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the chickpeas and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the Spices:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground paprika, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Sprinkle the spice mix over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. Cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Combine and Serve:
1. Add the cooked couscous to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
2. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Garnish and Serve:
1. Transfer the Couscous with Vegetables and Exotic Spices to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and cilantro.
3. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Couscous with Vegetables and Exotic Spices as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite grilled proteins.