When it comes to flavorful and nutritious meals, pearl couscous is a great ingredient to have in your repertoire. This small, round pasta is made from semolina flour and has a delicate, slightly chewy texture that pairs well with a wide range of flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a more substantial main course, pearl couscous is a versatile base that can be used to create countless recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to use pearl couscous in your cooking, from light and refreshing salads to hearty and comforting stews. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and exotic or classic and familiar, there’s a pearl couscous recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy.
Lemon Herb Pearl Couscous Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing Lemon Herb Pearl Couscous Salad, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or main course. This salad combines the subtle sweetness of pearl couscous with the zesty tanginess of lemon and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked couscous to the bowl and toss to combine with the lemon mixture.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and dill.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking time for pearl couscous)
Spicy Moroccan Pearl Couscous Stew
This hearty stew combines the comfort of couscous with the bold flavors of Morocco, featuring tender meat and vegetables in a spicy tomato broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a flavorful one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb or beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions.
5. Serve stew over cooked couscous, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Pearl Couscous with Shrimp
A flavorful and elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and paprika; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in cooked couscous and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the creamy texture of pearl couscous with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring roasted vegetables and a tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Serve the Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Bowl with tzatziki sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Pearl Couscous
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines roasted vegetables with the creamy texture of pearl couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions using warmed water or broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Fluff cooked couscous with a fork and stir in roasted vegetables.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Pearl Couscous
Elevate your meal with this rich and creamy couscous dish infused with the savory flavors of parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side or light main course, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork. Add it to the skillet and toss to combine with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Chickpeas and Spinach
This flavorful dish combines the nutty goodness of pearl couscous with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a burst of fresh spinach. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner option!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Once the couscous is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add to the pan with the chickpea mixture.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Pearl Couscous Soup
This vibrant soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a creamy pearl couscous. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup pearl couscous
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, basil leaves, and pearl couscous. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the couscous is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pearl Couscous Stuffed Bell Peppers
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this colorful and nutritious recipe. Pearl couscous pairs perfectly with roasted bell peppers, savory ground beef, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked couscous, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Pearl Couscous with Coconut Milk
This flavorful dish combines the nutty taste of pearl couscous with the rich aroma of curry and the creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked couscous with the curried coconut milk mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Grilled Chicken Skewers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional couscous, this recipe combines tender grilled chicken skewers with a creamy pearl couscous dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together water, couscous, and salt. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with fork.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces. Brush with olive oil and season with garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with fork and stir in chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve grilled chicken skewers over pearl couscous.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Roasted Red Peppers and Feta
This vibrant dish combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the tanginess of crumbly feta. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Toss the chopped red bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and stir in roasted red peppers and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Black Bean Tacos
Discover the perfect blend of Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors with these scrumptious tacos, featuring pearl couscous and black beans. This unique fusion will become your new favorite dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add cumin and black beans to the pan; stir well. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the couscous and bean mixture into the shells, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Sautéed Mushrooms and Thyme
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms, all tied together with a hint of thyme. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add couscous, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fluff cooked couscous with a fork. Combine with mushroom mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Grilled Zucchini Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the creamy texture of pearl couscous with the smoky sweetness of grilled zucchini, topped with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Add the cooked couscous and grilled zucchini; toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese
This elegant side dish combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the creaminess of goat cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Add garlic (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked couscous with a fork and stir in goat cheese until melted.
6. Combine caramelized onions and couscous mixture; season to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the nutty taste of pearl couscous with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Mix cooked couscous with roasted sweet potatoes. Add cumin and smoked paprika if desired.
5. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Lemon Garlic Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the tender sweetness of salmon, all wrapped up in a bed of creamy pearl couscous. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic-lemon mixture.
4. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve salmon atop cooked pearl couscous, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of pearl couscous with these 18 flavorful recipes, perfect for any occasion. From salads and stews to soups and main courses, there’s something for everyone. Try the Lemon Herb Pearl Couscous Salad or Spicy Moroccan Pearl Couscous Stew for a taste of exotic flavors. Or, go classic with Garlic Butter Pearl Couscous with Shrimp or Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Bowl. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, these recipes showcase the creamy texture and nutty flavor of pearl couscous.
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