Jewelled Couscous

Transform your table into a feast for the senses with this vibrant and flavor-packed Jewelled Couscous recipe. A stunning medley of fluffy couscous, sweet dried apricots, golden raisins, crunchy toasted almonds, pistachios, and bursts of juicy pomegranate seeds come together in perfect harmony, all elevated by fragrant fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Warm spices, a bright hit of lemon juice, and a touch of zest infuse each bite with irresistible depth and zest. Ready in just 20 minutes, this gluten-free side dish is beautifully versatile—ideal as an elegant accompaniment to roasted meats or a light, refreshing vegetarian main course. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dazzling dish will light up your dining table and steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups boiling water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 0.25 cup raisins or golden raisins
• 0.5 cup pomegranate seeds
• 0.25 cup toasted almonds, sliced or chopped
• 0.25 cup toasted pistachios, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 medium lemon, juiced
• 0.5 teaspoons lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Place the couscous in a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2

Add the boiling water, olive oil, and salt to the couscous. Stir to combine and then cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.

Step 3

While the couscous is resting, prepare the dried apricots, raisins, pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts, and herbs.

Step 4

Once the couscous has absorbed all the water, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 5

Add the dried apricots, raisins, pomegranate seeds, toasted almonds, and pistachios into the couscous. Toss to combine.

Step 6

Sprinkle the chopped parsley, mint, ground cinnamon, and ground cumin over the couscous. Mix gently to incorporate the flavors evenly.

Step 7

Drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the mixture. Toss again to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 8

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, lemon juice, or olive oil as desired.

Step 9

Transfer the jewelled couscous to a serving platter and garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds and herbs if desired.

Step 10

Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	776.4 grams (776.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1079

Total Fat 58.10g	74%
Saturated Fat 7.00g	35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1500mg	65%
Total Carbohydrate 131.90g	48%
Dietary Fiber 17.80g	64%
Total Sugars 69.00g
Protein 22.50g	45%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 228mg	18%
Iron 6mg	33%
Potassium 1649mg	35%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.8%

Protein: 7.9%

Carbs: 46.3%