Moroccan Lentils and Couscous

Infused with the warm, aromatic spices of North Africa, Moroccan Lentils and Couscous is a one-pot vegetarian delight that’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make dish combines tender red lentils simmered in a fragrant tomato-based broth with earthy notes of cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon. Served over fluffy couscous and garnished with fresh parsley and zesty lemon wedges, this recipe is a perfect balance of savory and bright. Ready in just 45 minutes, it makes for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive addition to your Mediterranean-inspired dinner menu. High in plant-based protein and vibrant with authentic flavors, this dish is ideal for vegetarians and anyone seeking a satisfying, globally-inspired recipe.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup red lentils
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups boiling water
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large lemon, sliced into wedges

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

Step 2

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and ground cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the red lentils, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 4

Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the mixture thickens.

Step 5

While the lentils are cooking, prepare the couscous. Place the couscous in a medium heatproof bowl, pour the boiling water over it, and cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the couscous gently with a fork.

Step 6

Once the lentils are done, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7

Serve the Moroccan lentils over the fluffed couscous, garnished with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the top.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1958.4 grams (1958.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1189

Total Fat 49.10g	63%
Saturated Fat 8.90g	45%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.40g
Cholesterol 8mg	3%
Sodium 4896mg	213%
Total Carbohydrate 153.30g	56%
Dietary Fiber 39.10g	140%
Total Sugars 31.90g
Protein 42.50g	85%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 391mg	30%
Iron 17mg	93%
Potassium 3296mg	70%

*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: 36.1%

Protein: 13.9%

Carbs: 50.1%