Signature Recipe
Zesty Mediterranean Couscous with Grilled Vegetables
Fluffy couscous tossed with grilled vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect as a side dish.
Imagine a vibrant medley of colors and flavors coming together in one satisfying dish. This delightful recipe features fluffy couscous, which serves as a perfect canvas for a variety of grilled vegetables. Picture tender zucchini and sweet bell peppers, kissed by the grill’s smoky embrace, adding both depth and texture to your plate. As the vegetables soften and caramelize, they release their natural sweetness, creating a harmonious balance with the light and airy couscous.
The preparation is not only simple but also a rewarding experience, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. In just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can create a dish that feels both wholesome and sophisticated. The process begins with the quick cooking of couscous, which fluffs to perfection with the addition of just the right amount of water. Meanwhile, grilling the veggies infuses them with a delightful char, enhancing their flavors and creating a beautiful contrast in texture.
What truly elevates this dish is the zesty lemon dressing that ties everything together. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a burst of brightness, waking up the flavors and giving the dish an invigorating finish. This recipe not only serves as a fantastic side dish but also stands out on its own, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a light vegetarian option, the combination of ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying experience that is sure to leave everyone wanting more.
Zesty Mediterranean Couscous with Grilled Vegetables
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous (uncooked)
- 1 cup water (for cooking couscous)
- 1 medium zucchini (sliced)
- 1 medium bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 medium red onion (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling vegetables)
- 1 lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon zest (from lemon)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Steps
- In a pot, bring water to a boil and add couscous. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, toss sliced zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes or until tender and slightly charred.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Add the grilled vegetables to the couscous.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the couscous and vegetables, tossing to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm or at room temperature.
General Notes
- Serves 4
- Fluffy couscous tossed with grilled vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect as a side dish.