Couscous with seafood

Seafood Couscous – A Culinary Journey in Every Bite

If you are looking for a quick and delicious recipe that combines Mediterranean flavors with a sophisticated taste, seafood couscous is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it ideal for a special dinner or a family meal. Seafood adds extra protein and an unmistakable taste, while couscous is a versatile base that perfectly absorbs the flavors.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 200 g couscous
- 270 g seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels, etc.)
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 30 g butter
- Salt, to taste
- Vegeta, to taste
- 600 ml hot water
- Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Practical tip: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen seafood. If you opt for frozen, make sure to thaw and wash them well before use. This will ensure a pleasant texture and fresh taste.

Step by step – How to prepare seafood couscous:

1. Preparing the couscous:
- Start by heating a wok or a large pan over medium heat. Add the two tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the couscous to the wok and stir it, allowing it to brown slightly. This step will enhance the couscous's flavor.

2. Boiling the couscous:
- Once the couscous has taken on a golden hue, gradually add 600 ml of hot water. Cover the wok with a lid and let the couscous boil for 9 minutes, until the water is completely absorbed.

3. Adding butter and spices:
- When the couscous is ready, add the butter and spices (salt and Vegeta) to taste. Mix well, then turn off the heat. Let the couscous sit covered on the stove for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly.

4. Preparing the vegetables and seafood:
- In a separate pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the diced carrot and bell pepper. These vegetables will add color and crunch to your dish.
- After about 3-4 minutes, add the thawed and washed seafood. Let it sauté, stirring occasionally. If necessary, you can add a little hot water to prevent sticking.

5. Combining the ingredients:
- Once the vegetables are tender and the seafood is cooked, add this mixture to the wok with the couscous. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- If needed, you can add a little hot water and let it simmer covered for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Serving:
- The seafood couscous is served hot, directly from the wok. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra freshness that will highlight the flavors of the sea.

Personal tip: Instead of lemon, you can experiment with balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for a more intense flavor. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the dish's aroma.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 10 g

Frequently asked questions:

- *Can I use other types of vegetables?*
Yes, you can replace the carrot and bell pepper with zucchini, peas, or even spinach. Each vegetable will add a distinct note to your dish.

- *What drinks pair well with this dish?*
A dry white wine or craft beer can perfectly complement the flavors of this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, an herbal tea or fresh citrus juice would be excellent.

- *Is this recipe suitable for vegans?*
Although seafood is not vegan, you can adapt the recipe using tofu or vegetables instead for a delicious vegetarian version.

- *Can I prepare the seafood couscous in advance?*
It is recommended to prepare the couscous and seafood fresh to maintain optimal texture, but you can cook the vegetables in advance and combine them with the couscous before serving.

Seafood couscous is a versatile recipe that can be customized according to your preferences. Play with the ingredients and flavors, and turn every meal into a true culinary experience! Enjoy!