Are you looking for a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish? Look no further than pearl couscous! This ancient grain has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique texture and flavor. Pearl couscous is similar to regular couscous but has a slightly larger size, giving it a more substantial bite.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful pearl couscous recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From light salads to hearty main courses, these dishes showcase the versatility of pearl couscous and its ability to pair well with a wide range of ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something Mediterranean-inspired or looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into recipes that incorporate pearl couscous in creative ways, from Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing to Moroccan Pearl Couscous with Chickpeas and Apricots. Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes!
Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean in this vibrant and refreshing salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With its combination of tender pearl couscous, juicy vegetables, and tangy lemon herb dressing, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Harissa Pearl Couscous with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This Spicy Harissa Pearl Couscous with Roasted Vegetables is a delicious combination of creamy couscous, spicy harissa, and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and zucchini; roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in harissa and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked couscous with roasted vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pearl Couscous with Mushrooms and Thyme
This comforting side dish combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms and a hint of thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a flavorful addition to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork. Stir in the mushroom mixture, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous Stuffed Bell Peppers with Feta
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of feta cheese and the nutty taste of pearl couscous. A perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions using water or broth. Let it cool.
3. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked couscous with crumbled feta cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the couscous mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Pearl Couscous Skillet
A vibrant and flavorful one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender pearl couscous, and a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 3 cups water
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a separate pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the pearl couscous and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked couscous and shrimp mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan Pearl Couscous with Chickpeas and Apricots
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Morocco with this colorful and nutritious dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion. This recipe combines tender pearl couscous with creamy chickpeas, sweet apricots, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, apricots, and cooked couscous to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with parsley and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Grilled Halloumi Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the creamy richness of grilled halloumi cheese with the delicate flavor of pearl couscous, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the halloumi cheese slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Combine cooked couscous, grilled halloumi, and dressing in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Pearl Couscous with Chicken and Spinach
This hearty one-pan dish combines the creamy goodness of pearl couscous with juicy chicken, wilted spinach, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add garlic to the same pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add couscous and cook according to package instructions, stirring frequently.
6. Stir in cooked chicken, spinach, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, perfectly complemented by fluffy pearl couscous. A simple yet satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled goat cheese or toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic and sage, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
5. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions.
6. Serve the roasted squash over the couscous. Garnish with crumbled goat cheese or toasted pumpkin seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Greek Pearl Couscous with Olives and Feta
This classic Greek-inspired dish combines the creamy texture of pearl couscous with the salty tang of feta cheese, all tied together by the brininess of Kalamata olives. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the pearl couscous and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the sliced olives and cook for 3-4 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Cook for an additional minute to combine.
4. Fluff the cooked pearl couscous with a fork. Combine with the olive-feta mixture, season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pearl Couscous Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
This recipe combines the creamy texture of risotto with the nutty flavor of pearl couscous, perfectly balanced with sweet peas and sharp parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the pearl couscous to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the couscous mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more, until the couscous is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in the peas and cook until thawed. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pearl Couscous Tabbouleh with Fresh Herbs
This vibrant salad is a twist on the classic tabbouleh, featuring pearl couscous instead of bulgur. The addition of fresh herbs adds a bright and refreshing touch to this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using warmed water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, chopped herbs, scallions, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Spiced Lamb and Yogurt Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this hearty pearl couscous dish, paired with tender spiced lamb and a tangy yogurt sauce. This aromatic meal is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add lamb, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until lamb is browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes).
4. Stir in yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley.
5. Serve the spiced lamb mixture over cooked pearl couscous.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Smoked Salmon Bowl with Dill
This refreshing bowl combines the creamy texture of pearl couscous with the rich flavor of smoked salmon, all tied together with a burst of fresh dill. A perfect harmony of flavors for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 avocado, sliced (for added creaminess)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together flaked smoked salmon, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice.
3. Combine cooked couscous with the salmon mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced avocado if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the creamy texture of pearl couscous with the savory sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Fluff the cooked pearl couscous with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir to combine with the tomato-garlic mixture.
6. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Grilled Vegetable Platter
This colorful platter combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with a medley of grilled vegetables, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the couscous and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Combine cooked couscous, grilled vegetables, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Saffron and Roasted Almonds
Experience the exotic flavors of North Africa with this aromatic and nutritious side dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or vegetables. This recipe combines the delicate taste of pearl couscous with the warmth of saffron and the crunch of roasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the couscous. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soaked saffron threads and hot water.
3. Add the olive oil, salt, and saffron mixture to the cooked couscous. Fluff with a fork to combine.
4. Roast the sliced almonds in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Combine the roasted almonds with the saffron-infused couscous. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pearl Couscous and Black Bean Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and nutritious recipe! Creamy avocado halves are filled with a flavorful mix of pearl couscous, black beans, and spices for a deliciously satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked pearl couscous
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lime wedges, cilantro, or crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut avocados in half lengthwise and remove pits.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked couscous, black beans, red onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each avocado half with the couscous mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until avocados are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pearl Couscous with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the vibrant colors and tangy taste of cherry tomatoes, all tied together with a creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the pearl couscous, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 10-12 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pesto and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and add it to the pesto mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pearl Couscous Breakfast Bowl with Poached Eggs
Start your day off right with this nutritious and flavorful breakfast bowl featuring pearl couscous, tender poached eggs, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced cherry tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions.
2. While the couscous cooks, bring a pot of water to a simmer. Crack in the eggs and poach for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Crack in the cooked egg yolks (if desired) and season with salt and pepper.
4. To assemble, place a portion of cooked couscous in a bowl, top with a poached egg, and drizzle with any additional toppings you like.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of pearl couscous with these 20 flavorful recipes for every occasion! From Mediterranean salads to spicy skillets, and from stuffed bell peppers to breakfast bowls, this collection has something for everyone. Try a refreshing Lemon Herb Dressing on your Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad or spice up your day with Spicy Harissa Pearl Couscous with Roasted Vegetables. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the nutty goodness of pearl couscous. Get cooking and elevate your meals with these mouthwatering creations!
