5-Day Couscous with Vegetables and Spices Recipe

Introduction

5-Day Couscous is a simple and versatile dish that you can prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week. With its light texture and flavorful mix of vegetables and spices, it makes for a quick and satisfying meal any day.

Ingredients

• Couscous – 1 cup
• Mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots) – 2 cups, chopped
• Spices (such as cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper) – to taste
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable broth or water – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil in a pot. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and cook until tender, about 5–7 minutes. Season with your chosen spices.
3. Step 3: Combine the cooked couscous with the sautéed vegetables and mix well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Step 4: Divide the couscous into meal-sized portions. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
5. Step 5: Reheat portions as needed, either in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding chickpeas or your choice of protein to make it more filling.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness before serving.
• Swap vegetables according to the season or what you have on hand for variety.
• For a nutty flavor, toast the couscous lightly before cooking.

Storage

Store cooked couscous in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently with a little water or broth to retain moisture and prevent drying out. This makes it a convenient and tasty option for meal prep.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant couscous for this recipe?

Yes, instant couscous works well and shortens the cooking time since it absorbs hot liquid quickly.

How can I keep my reheated couscous from becoming dry?

Add a small splash of water or broth before reheating to maintain moisture and fluffiness.

5-Day Couscous with Vegetables and Spices Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 127 reviews

A simple and versatile 5-day couscous recipe perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week. This dish combines fluffy couscous with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, offering a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal option that can be easily reheated.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Couscous

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Vegetables

• 1 medium bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric

Instructions

1. Prepare couscous: In a large bowl, combine the couscous, olive oil, salt, and spices. Pour boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous and cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid and becomes fluffy. Use a fork to gently fluff the couscous.
2. Cook vegetables: While the couscous is soaking, steam or sauté the diced bell pepper, carrot, peas, and zucchini until tender but still slightly crisp. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes on the stovetop.
3. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked vegetables and chopped parsley to the fluffed couscous and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Store and reheat: Divide the couscous mixture into airtight containers for meal prepping. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying before serving.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
• Feel free to swap vegetables based on preference or seasonal availability.
• For added protein, incorporate chickpeas or grilled chicken when serving.
• Reheat gently to avoid drying out the couscous.
• This recipe is highly customizable with different spices and herbs.

Keywords: couscous, meal prep, vegetarian, quick recipe, Mediterranean, healthy, easy side dish