Apricot Couscous is a delightful and fragrant dish that combines the light, fluffy texture of couscous with the natural sweetness of dried apricots. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish is both savory and sweet, with a wonderful mix of textures from the tender couscous, chewy apricots, and crunchy toasted almonds. The addition of herbs like parsley and a hint of citrus brightens the flavors, making this dish perfect as a side for grilled meats, fish, or a vegetarian main course. Apricot Couscous is quick and easy to prepare, making it a versatile, flavorful addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced or slivered
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Fluff the couscous: After the couscous has absorbed all the broth, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
- Add the mix-ins: Stir in the chopped dried apricots, toasted almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
This Apricot Couscous is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, offering a refreshing, light side dish that pairs beautifully with many main courses or stands alone as a vibrant vegetarian dish.
