Moroccan Couscous Pilaf

Transport your taste buds to North Africa with this vibrant Moroccan Couscous Pilaf, a harmonious blend of fluffy couscous, aromatic spices, and sweet dried fruits. Perfectly seasoned with warming cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and coriander, this dish celebrates traditional Moroccan flavors while featuring tender carrots, zucchini, and golden raisins for a hearty yet light texture. Diced dried apricots lend a subtle sweetness, while slivered almonds add a delightful crunch. Finished with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice, this dish is an explosion of bold flavors and textures. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's an ideal side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled vegetables. Make your dinner table unforgettable with this easy, nutrient-packed couscous pilaf! Keywords: Moroccan couscous recipe, couscous pilaf, North African recipes, spiced couscous, quick vegetarian dinner.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Couscous
• 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium Carrot, diced
• 1 medium Zucchini, diced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons Turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground coriander
• 0.5 cup Dried apricots, chopped
• 0.5 cup Golden raisins
• 0.25 cup Slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

In a medium pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.

Step 2

Remove the pot from heat, stir in the couscous, cover with a lid, and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the diced carrot and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and coriander. Stir for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 7

Mix in the dried apricots and golden raisins, allowing them to warm slightly and soften for about 2 minutes.

Step 8

Add the cooked couscous to the skillet with the vegetable mixture and fold gently to combine.

Step 9

Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, stirring to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 10

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the slivered almonds and fresh cilantro over the couscous pilaf.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your Moroccan-inspired meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1319.8 grams (1319.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1282

Total Fat 46.70g	60%
Saturated Fat 6.20g	31%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4618mg	201%
Total Carbohydrate 205.90g	75%
Dietary Fiber 22.50g	80%
Total Sugars 112.30g
Protein 27.70g	55%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 320mg	25%
Iron 9mg	52%
Potassium 2728mg	58%

*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: 31.0%

Protein: 8.2%

Carbs: 60.8%