5-Day Couscous Recipe

Introduction

Couscous is a versatile and quick-cooking staple perfect for busy weeknight meals. This 5-Day Couscous recipe shows you how to prepare a flavorful base that can be enjoyed throughout the week with different vegetables and spices.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups water or broth
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
• 1 teaspoon your choice of spices (such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add salt and olive oil or butter.
2. Step 2: Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Step 3: Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
4. Step 4: In a separate pan, sauté the mixed vegetables with your chosen spices until tender.
5. Step 5: Combine the cooked vegetables with the couscous and mix well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Divide into portions for up to 5 days of easy meals. Store in airtight containers.
7. Step 7: Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep couscous moist.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for brightness before serving.
• Substitute vegetables according to the season or what you have on hand.
• For extra protein, mix in chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese.

Storage

Store cooked couscous in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use broth instead of water to cook couscous?

Yes, using broth adds extra flavor and will make your couscous taste richer. Both vegetable or chicken broth work well.

How can I prevent couscous from clumping together?

Fluff couscous with a fork immediately after cooking and avoid stirring too much. Adding a bit of olive oil or butter while cooking also helps keep the grains separate.

5-Day Couscous Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 147 reviews

A quick and versatile 5-day couscous recipe that combines fluffy couscous with a colorful mix of vegetables and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well and can be easily reheated throughout the week for a nutritious and convenient meal.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Couscous

• 1 1/2 cups couscous
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Vegetables

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the couscous: In a large bowl, combine the couscous, salt, and olive oil. Pour the boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed. Then fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Cook the vegetables: While the couscous is soaking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and peas, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
3. Season the dish: Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper into the cooked vegetables. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Combine couscous and vegetables: Add the fluffed couscous to the skillet with the seasoned vegetables. Gently toss everything together over low heat for 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if using.
5. Store and reheat: Divide the couscous mixture into airtight containers for storage. Refrigerate and reheat portions as needed, either in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Notes

• You can substitute the vegetables with your favorites, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Using vegetable broth instead of water to prepare couscous enhances the flavor.
• The dish can be served warm or cold, making it a great option for salads or side dishes.
• To make it vegan, ensure no animal-based broth or fats are used.
• For added protein, consider stirring in chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu upon reheating.

Keywords: couscous, meal prep, vegetarian, Mediterranean, quick dinner, healthy veggies