Lemon Herb Couscous with Grilled Veggies is a dish that dances on your taste buds, bursting with zesty flavors. Picture fluffy couscous mingling with vibrant grilled vegetables, creating a symphony of tastes and textures. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your senses and making you anticipate the first scrumptious bite.
This delightful recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues where laughter fills the air and friends gather around the grill. It’s perfect for those sunny afternoons or as a light dinner option when you need something quick yet satisfying. Trust me; this Lemon Herb Couscous will transport you to a Mediterranean paradise with every forkful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon Herb Couscous is super easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Its bright flavors and colorful presentation will impress your guests
- This dish is versatile enough to serve warm or cold, fitting any occasion perfectly
- Plus, it pairs wonderfully with various proteins or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian meal
I once served this Lemon Herb Couscous at a picnic, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it—one even suggested we start a support group for couscous enthusiasts!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Couscous: Use fine couscous for a light, fluffy texture that’s quick to cook.
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Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to enhance flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
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Zucchini: Select firm zucchini for grilling; they add wonderful moisture and texture.
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Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for visual appeal and sweetness when grilled.
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Red Onion: Sweet red onion caramelizes beautifully on the grill, adding depth to your dish.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides that zesty kick we all crave; bottled juice just won’t do!
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Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Mint): Use freshly chopped herbs for vibrant flavor and aroma; dried herbs won’t cut it here.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances richness and helps in grilling veggies evenly.
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Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates the dish; don’t skip these essentials!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Couscous: Start by bringing vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until fluffy.
Grill the Vegetables: While couscous rests, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the grill.
Cook Until Tender: Grill the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop nice char marks and are tender but still crisp. The smell will be divine!
Add Flavor: In a large bowl, fluff the couscous with a fork then stir in grilled vegetables along with fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or main course! This Lemon Herb Couscous with Grilled Veggies is perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy preparing your Lemon Herb Couscous with Grilled Veggies! Each bite promises sunshine on your plate.
This amazing lemon herb couscous with grilled veggies recipe is both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
You Must Know
- This versatile dish allows customization with seasonal vegetables, making it a year-round favorite
- The bright flavors of lemon and herbs create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen
- Enjoy it warm or cold as a meal or side dish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling the veggies first to enhance their flavor, then cook the couscous while they cool. This sequence ensures tasty, well-cooked ingredients that blend beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in quinoa or bulgur as a base. Add feta cheese or chickpeas for extra protein and flavor, tailoring it to your taste preferences!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, keeping it fresh and tasty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let the couscous sit covered after cooking so it absorbs all the delicious juices
- Grilling veggies at high heat caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing sweetness
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure perfection!
I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; their smiles said it all! We enjoyed each bite while laughing about our cooking mishaps.
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables in lemon herb couscous with grilled veggies?
Absolutely! Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus work wonderfully.
What herbs pair best with lemon herb couscous?
Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and basil elevate lemon herb couscous with vibrant flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance for even more developed flavors; just store properly!
Lemon Herb Couscous with Grilled Veggies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Lemon Herb Couscous with Grilled Veggies, a delightful dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. Fluffy couscous mingles with beautifully grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, all brightened by fresh herbs and a zesty lemon kick. Perfect for picnics or quick weeknight dinners, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious—serving warm or cold, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine couscous
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
- ½ medium red onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for about 5 minutes until fluffy.
- Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side until tender.
- Fluff couscous with a fork in a large bowl. Stir in grilled vegetables along with lemon juice and chopped herbs. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature as a side dish or main course.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
