5-Day Flavorful Couscous with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe

Introduction

This 5-day couscous recipe is a simple and versatile dish perfect for meal prepping. With just a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy delicious, fluffy couscous served with fresh vegetables and herbs throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley, mint, or cilantro), chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat, add the couscous, cover, and let it steam for 5 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
2. Step 2: Fluff the couscous with a fork and drizzle with olive oil. Stir in chopped vegetables and herbs, then season with salt to taste.
3. Step 3: Divide the couscous into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator.
4. Step 4: Serve cold or reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over the next five days.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the couscous in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding liquid.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
• Include nuts like toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.
• Try different herbs like basil or dill to change the flavor profile.

Storage

Store cooked couscous in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out or enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water?

Yes, using broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the couscous and works great in this recipe.

How do I keep the couscous from getting mushy when stored?

Allow the couscous to cool completely before storing and keep it airtight. Reheat gently and add a little olive oil or lemon juice if it feels dry.

5-Day Flavorful Couscous with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 130 reviews

This versatile 5-Day Couscous recipe offers a simple and nutritious way to prepare couscous with fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil. Perfect for meal prep, this dish can be prepared once and enjoyed over several days as a flavorful base or side dish.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Couscous

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Vegetables

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers), diced

Herbs

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

Olive Oil

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for dressing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a heatproof bowl, combine the couscous with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pour 1 cup of boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous, cover the bowl, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the couscous has absorbed the liquid and is tender. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: While the couscous is soaking, wash and dice your choice of fresh vegetables. Chop the fresh parsley and mint finely.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced vegetables and chopped herbs to the fluffed couscous. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture and gently toss to combine everything evenly.
4. Store Properly: Transfer the couscous salad into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to 5 days, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the couscous chilled or at room temperature as a main dish or side. For added flavor, drizzle with additional olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth instead of water to infuse more flavor into the couscous.
• Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on preference and seasonality.
• This couscous salad can be customized by adding protein such as chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese if desired.
• The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Serve with a lemon wedge for an added fresh citrus note.

Keywords: couscous, meal prep, vegetarian, Mediterranean, healthy salad, quick recipe