Couscous

Delicious Couscous Recipe with Sautéed Vegetables

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe, couscous with sautéed vegetables is the perfect choice. This simple recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a Mediterranean flair to your kitchen. Couscous, a staple in many cultures, is a versatile and nutritious choice, ideal for a light meal or as a side dish to various main courses.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g couscous
- 1 tablespoon of oil (preferably olive oil for a richer taste)
- ¼ Knorr Vegetable cube (or another concentrated vegetable broth)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- Water (500 ml)

The history of couscous is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of various cultures. It is made from wheat semolina and is a carbohydrate-rich food, providing a quick source of energy. Additionally, couscous is easy to prepare and can be used as a base for many delicious combinations.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Toast the couscous:
Start by heating a pan over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of oil and, when hot, add the couscous to the pan. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant. This step is essential for adding rich flavor to your dish.

2. Boil the water with the broth:
In a separate pot, bring 500 ml of water to a boil. Add half of the Knorr Vegetable cube, stirring to dissolve completely. This will be the flavor base for the couscous and vegetables.

3. Combine the couscous and water:
Once the water is boiling, pour it over the toasted couscous in the pan. Cover the pot with aluminum foil or a lid and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This time will allow the couscous to absorb all the liquid and flavors.

4. Sauté the vegetables:
In the same pan where you toasted the couscous, add a little oil (if needed) and sauté the sliced onion over medium heat. When it becomes translucent (about 2-3 minutes), add the diced carrot and yellow bell pepper. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, then add the tomato. If the vegetables become too dry, add a little water to help them cook.

5. Finalize the dish:
Once the vegetables are cooked (but still crunchy), mix them with the hydrated couscous. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and let them combine over low heat for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serve stylishly:
Transfer the dish to a platter and, if desired, you can add some freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing taste. This couscous with vegetables is perfect both warm and cold, so it can also be served as a salad.

Practical tips:
- Variations of ingredients: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, or even proteins like chicken or chickpeas to make the dish more substantial.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices. A teaspoon of cumin or ground coriander can add an exotic touch.
- Pairing with other dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Nutritional information:
Couscous is a good source of complex carbohydrates, being low in fat. A serving contains approximately 180 calories, 6 g of protein, 36 g of carbohydrates, and 2 g of fat, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain couscous?
Yes, whole grain couscous is a healthier option, with a higher fiber content.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?
By using water instead of vegetable broth and ensuring all ingredients are plant-based, you will achieve a completely vegan dish.

3. How can I store leftover couscous?
You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Now that you are equipped with all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Enjoy every step of this delicious process and don’t forget to share the results with your loved ones. Bon appétit!