Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous
Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites
I absolutely love making Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous as a quick and flavorful side dish. The combination of roasted broccoli's natural sweetness with zesty lemon makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting dinner for friends. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Honestly, once you try this vibrant dish, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation!
When I first tried Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a delightful dish. The key is to roast the broccoli until it's slightly charred, which enhances its flavor and gives it a satisfying texture. I also squeeze fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten everything up—it really elevates the dish!
Another tip I discovered is using vegetable broth instead of water to cook the couscous. This adds depth to the overall flavor, making every bite enjoyable. I often serve it with grilled chicken or fish, and it never fails to impress!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The incredible blend of flavors from roasted broccoli and bright lemon.
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and light, making it a guilt-free side dish.
Perfectly Roasted Broccoli
Achieving perfectly roasted broccoli is crucial for enhancing its natural sweetness and providing a satisfying texture. Make sure you cut the florets into uniform sizes, ideally around 1-2 inches. This ensures even cooking. Watch for the golden edges; they indicate that the broccoli is caramelizing nicely, which contributes a delicious depth of flavor. If you notice that some pieces are cooking faster than others, consider rearranging them halfway through roasting.
The choice of olive oil is significant here – quality matters! Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor, which complements the garlic powder and lemon juice beautifully. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes during roasting for an extra kick if you enjoy some heat.
Couscous Considerations
Couscous is a versatile grain that absorbs flavors exceptionally well, making it a great canvas for this dish. Using vegetable broth instead of water not only enhances the taste but also adds richness. It's essential to follow the cooking instructions closely – let the couscous rest covered for five minutes to achieve that perfect fluffy texture. If the couscous feels too dry, a splash of additional broth or olive oil can help moisten it without making it soggy.
Feel free to get creative with your couscous by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, parsley, or even toasted nuts for extra crunch. These additions can elevate the dish even more, offering varied textures and flavors that contrast beautifully with the roasted broccoli.
Ingredients
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Roast the Broccoli
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
Cook the Couscous
While the broccoli is roasting, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add couscous and olive oil, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Combine and Serve
Once the broccoli is done, remove it from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over both the broccoli and couscous. Gently mix the broccoli into the couscous, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve warm.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can also enhance the dish beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare the Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous ahead of time, you can roast the broccoli and cook the couscous separately in advance. Store both components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broccoli in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, while the couscous can be reheated in the microwave for a couple of minutes.
For longer storage, consider freezing the components separately. The broccoli can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to three months. The couscous can also be stored in small portions, and when ready to enjoy, the broccoli is best reheated directly from frozen to maintain its texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled chicken, fish, or even plant-based proteins like chickpea patties. The acidity of the lemon balances rich flavors, making it a refreshing side that brightens up your plate. For a full meal, try incorporating a protein of your choice and a light salad, allowing the couscous to shine as a centerpiece.
For a more substantial vegetarian option, consider mixing in some white beans or chickpeas before serving. Not only do they add protein, but they also provide a heartiness that turns this side dish into a satisfying main course. The extra textures paired with the roasted broccoli create a delightful balance in every bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting.
→ Is there a gluten-free option for couscous?
Absolutely! You can substitute couscous with quinoa or any gluten-free grain.
→ How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roasted broccoli and couscous ahead and combine them when you’re ready to serve.
Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous
I absolutely love making Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous as a quick and flavorful side dish. The combination of roasted broccoli's natural sweetness with zesty lemon makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting dinner for friends. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Honestly, once you try this vibrant dish, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation!
Created by: Esme Caldwell
Recipe Type: Home Healthy Meals Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
While the broccoli is roasting, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add couscous and olive oil, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Once the broccoli is done, remove it from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over both the broccoli and couscous. Gently mix the broccoli into the couscous, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can also enhance the dish beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g