Description

Lemony Spinach Couscous is a quick, easy, and nutritious dinner that features fluffy couscous combined with fresh baby spinach and zesty lemon. This vibrant dish offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or light weekend meals. Packed with iron-rich spinach and whole grain couscous, it’s both wholesome and satisfying, easily customizable with proteins, nuts, or fresh herbs for added texture and nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup fine or medium-grain couscous
2 cups vegetable broth or water
2 cups fresh baby spinach
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for finishing)
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the couscous: Bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the couscous, stir briefly, then cover and remove from heat. Let it steam for about 5 minutes until fully hydrated and fluffy.
Sauté garlic and spinach: While the couscous steams, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook just until wilted, preserving its vibrant green color.
Combine and season: Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Mix in the sautéed spinach and garlic. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Final touches: Drizzle a bit more olive oil if desired, adjust the seasoning, and toss everything gently to combine evenly for a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
Do not overcook the spinach; wilt it just enough to retain color and nutrients.
Fluff couscous gently with a fork to avoid clumping and keep it light.
Always use hot liquid to hydrate the couscous for best texture.
Adjust olive oil and lemon juice gradually to suit your preferred moisture and flavor balance.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Steaming
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg