Mediterranean Pearl Couscous with Fresh Herbs & Lemon is a vibrant, wholesome dish that beautifully captures the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean coast. With its tender, chewy couscous pearls tossed in olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs, and citrus, this dish is both comforting and refreshing at the same time. It works wonderfully as a light main course or a flavorful side dish for grilled meats and seafood.
Mediterranean Pearl Couscous:
This versatile recipe can be enjoyed warm as a comforting side dish or chilled as a refreshing salad. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or plant-based proteins, and can easily be customized with seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs. Mediterranean Pearl Couscous is loved for its ease of preparation, nutritional value, and vibrant flavors that bring a taste of the Mediterranean to any table.
History:
Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous or ptitim, was developed in Israel in the 1950s as an alternative grain during rice shortages. Unlike traditional couscous, it is toasted pasta made from wheat, giving it a distinctive round shape and slightly nutty flavor. Over time, it became popular in Mediterranean cuisine, often combined with olive oil, vegetables, herbs, and cheese.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Mediterranean Pearl Couscous with Fresh Herbs & Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1½ cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint or basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Bring vegetable broth or water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add pearl couscous, reduce heat, and simmer until tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff couscous with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine couscous with vegetables, olives, herbs, and feta.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season, and toss gently to combine.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pearl couscous for added fiber.
- Serve warm or chilled depending on preference.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for extra brightness.
- Feta can be replaced with vegan cheese if desired.
- Stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Mediterranean Pearl Couscous:
- Toast the couscous in olive oil before boiling for extra flavor.
- Add roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Use fresh herbs for the best aroma and taste.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
FAQs for Mediterranean Pearl Couscous:
Q1: Is pearl couscous gluten-free?
No, pearl couscous is made from wheat and contains gluten.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Q3: What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a dairy-free alternative works well.
Q4: Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely—chickpeas, grilled shrimp, or chicken are great additions.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Pearl Couscous is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delightful way. Its fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon dressing make it a standout recipe for any occasion. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.