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–+ servings
Pesto Couscous

Delicious Pesto Couscous with Toasted Pine Nuts Delight

Pesto Couscous is a comforting dish combining fluffy couscous with vibrant pesto, perfect as a side or light main course.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Couscous Base
  • 1.5 cups pearl couscous Add whole wheat couscous for a healthier option.
  • 1.75 cups water Use vegetable broth for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust if using low-sodium options.
For the Flavor
  • 0.5 cups pesto Try different varieties like sun-dried tomato or kale.
  • 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated) Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative.
  • 0.25 cups pine nuts Optional; substitute with toasted almonds or omit.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest A splash of lemon juice is a good substitute.
  • salt and pepper To taste.
For Garnish
  • Fresh basil Optional; can substitute with arugula or parsley.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Fork
  • Lid

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Couscous
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1.75 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over medium-high heat. Stir briefly and bring to a rapid boil.
  2. Once boiling, add 1.5 cups of pearl couscous, stir gently, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
  3. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the couscous with a fork to prevent it from becoming gummy.
  4. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 0.25 cups of pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat to cool.
  5. In the saucepan with the cooked couscous, stir in 0.5 cups of pesto, 0.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, and the optional 1 teaspoon of lemon zest until well combined.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm garnished with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Using homemade pesto can elevate the dish's flavor. Ensure the couscous does not overcook and keep an eye on the pine nuts while toasting to avoid burning.

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