Couscous with vegetables

Couscous with Vegetables - A Healthy and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Are you looking for a healthy meal that provides energy, a feeling of fullness, and exceptional taste? We present to you the recipe for couscous with vegetables, a perfect option for a quick lunch or a flavorful dinner. This dish is known for its ability to revitalize and provide comfort, especially after a long day. Besides being quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is rich in nutrients and low in fat.

The history of couscous dates back to ancient times, being a traditional dish in many cultures. It is said to symbolize hospitality and joy, often served at special events. Nowadays, couscous has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility and how it can be combined with various ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 100 g couscous
- 1 potato (approximately 150 g)
- 1 carrot (approximately 100 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, diced (can also be canned)
- 1/2 teaspoon harissa paste (or more if you like it spicy)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by sautéing the chopped onion in a deep pot with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. When the onion becomes translucent, add the minced garlic and let it sauté together with the onion for about 1 minute until it releases its aroma.

2. Seasoning:
Add the harissa paste, turmeric, and cumin. Mix well so that the spices integrate into the vegetable mixture. They will not only add a deep flavor but also a vibrant color to your dish.

3. Cooking the Vegetables:
Peel and dice the potato and carrot into small cubes, and slice the bell pepper. Add all the chopped vegetables and the tomatoes to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Add enough water to cover the vegetables and let them simmer on low heat, covered, for about 30 minutes. Check occasionally to see if the vegetables are cooked, but do not let them become too soft.

4. Preparing the Couscous:
In a bowl, place the couscous, add a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of olive oil. Boil water (approximately 200 ml) and pour it over the couscous. Cover the bowl with a lid or plate and let it absorb the water for 5-6 minutes. Then, use a fork to fluff the couscous, so the grains separate. The olive oil will help prevent sticking.

5. Assembling the Dish:
Once the vegetables are cooked and the couscous has absorbed all the water, create a well in the middle of the couscous and pour in the hot vegetables and their sauce. Top everything with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and flavor.

6. Serving:
Serve immediately, enjoying the intense and colorful flavors. Couscous with vegetables is delicious both warm and cold, so it can also be enjoyed the next day as a salad.

Practical Tips:
- For a vegan version: Ensure that the harissa paste does not contain animal-derived ingredients. This is a great fasting dish, offering a balanced combination of carbohydrates and vegetables.
- Add protein: If you want to enrich this dish, you can add cooked chickpeas or lentils, which are excellent sources of plant-based protein.
- Vary the vegetables: You can experiment with various seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or peas, to add even more nutrients and flavors.
- Suitable drinks: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of mineral water with lemon or a refreshing mint tea.

Nutritional Information (per serving approximately):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 8 g

If you are looking for a dish that offers comfort and freshness, couscous with vegetables is the ideal choice. Perfect for an everyday meal, this dish will not only provide you with energy but also a smile on your face. Give it a try and feel free to share your impressions!