Best 8 Couscous With Quick Preserved Lemon Recipes

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# Couscous with Quick-Preserved Lemon

Tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey to the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this delightful couscous dish. Embark on a sensory adventure as you explore the harmonious blend of tender, fluffy couscous, tangy preserved lemons, aromatic spices, and a symphony of fresh herbs.

Our carefully curated selection of recipes offers a delightful range of options to suit every palate. From the classic Moroccan couscous to the vibrant Algerian version, each recipe captures the essence of this beloved dish. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a traditional preparation or desire a more elaborate feast, our recipes will guide you every step of the way.

Indulge in the zesty delight of "Couscous with Quick-Preserved Lemon," where the tangy kick of preserved lemons elevates the dish to new heights. Discover the vibrant flavors of "Algerian Couscous with Seven Vegetables," where a symphony of colorful vegetables harmonizes with the tender couscous. Experience the aromatic embrace of "Moroccan Couscous with Chicken and Vegetables," where succulent chicken and an array of vegetables mingle in a fragrant broth.

For those seeking a vegetarian delight, "Moroccan Vegetable Couscous" offers a symphony of flavors and textures, while "Israeli Couscous Salad with Roasted Vegetables" presents a refreshing and vibrant take on this classic dish. And if you crave a taste of the sea, "Mediterranean Couscous with Seafood" promises a delightful escapade into the depths of the ocean's bounty.

With our comprehensive guide, you'll master the art of preparing couscous, uncovering the secrets of achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Embark on a culinary adventure and let your taste buds dance with delight as you explore the diverse world of couscous dishes.

Here are our top 8 tried and tested recipes!

LEMON COUSCOUS RECIPE



Lemon Couscous Recipe image

This is one of the fastest, easiest side dish recipes! Plus it's has a delicious bright flavor that pairs well with just about any main dish, it's incredibly versatile too.

Provided by Jaclyn

Categories     Side Dish

Time 10m

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tsp minced garlic ((1 large clove))
1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth ((or vegetable broth))
1 tsp lemon zest
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, (or more to taste (optional)*)
1 cup (6 oz) couscous ((not pearl couscous))

Steps:

  • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Add garlic and saute until fragrant (not toasting and browning or it will be bitter!), about 20 seconds.
  • Remove from heat, pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice and season with salt to taste. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
  • Pour in couscous, stir then remove from heat and immediately cover with lid. Let rest 4 - 5 minutes off heat.
  • Add parsley and fluff with a fork. Finish with a little more olive oil or broth to moisten if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 234 kcal, Carbohydrate 35 g, Protein 6 g, Fat 7 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 159 mg, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 1 g, ServingSize 1 serving

COUSCOUS SALAD WITH DRIED APRICOTS AND PRESERVED LEMON



Couscous Salad With Dried Apricots and Preserved Lemon image

While summer is still with us, you can serve any vegetable-laden dishes you've been enjoying all season alongside your meat. Or for something different, I offer a couscous and dried apricot salad dressed with preserved lemon and plenty of herbs. If you can't find any preserved lemons, and can spare a few weeks, here's a recipe to make them yourself.

Provided by Melissa Clark

Categories     easy, quick, salads and dressings

Time 15m

Yield 12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 cups Israeli (pearl) couscous, whole-wheat or regular
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or white wine vinegar
3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 cup chopped dried apricots
3/4 cup torn fresh mint leaves
2/3 cup coarsely chopped fresh dill
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, more to taste
1/2 cup chopped scallion, white and light-green parts
2 1/2 tablespoons chopped preserved lemon
Fresh lemon juice, to taste
Chopped pistachio nuts, for garnish (optional)

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add couscous and cook until just tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Drain.
  • Meanwhile, in a small dry skillet, toast cumin seeds until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Lightly crush them using a mortar and a pestle (or use the flat side of a heavy knife and a cutting board). Add to a bowl with the warm couscous, vinegar, salt and pepper and toss well. When the couscous is cool, add remaining ingredients and mix well. Taste and add more salt, lemon juice or oil if needed. Garnish with pistachio nuts if desired.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 295, UnsaturatedFat 10 grams, Carbohydrate 40 grams, Fat 12 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 6 grams, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 126 milligrams, Sugar 5 grams

LEMON COUSCOUS



Lemon Couscous image

This is light and fresh and accompanies fish (i.e. habanero-lime butter grilled salmon) and chicken well. It is a refreshing change to the rice or potato side dish, and everyone always loves it.

Provided by redveeder

Categories     Side Dish

Time 15m

Yield 3

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon butter
¼ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup couscous
1 (2 ounce) jar sliced pimento peppers, drained
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps:

  • Stir chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, butter, and salt together in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Add couscous to the liquid and stir to coat completely. Place a cover on the saucepan, remove from heat, and let couscous soak in hot liquid until the moisture is mostly absorbed, about 5 minutes.
  • Fluff couscous with a fork. Stir pimento peppers, pine nuts, and parsley into the couscous.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 224.6 calories, Carbohydrate 33.2 g, Cholesterol 11.8 mg, Fat 7.2 g, Fiber 2.9 g, Protein 7 g, SaturatedFat 2.9 g, Sodium 549.4 mg, Sugar 1.4 g

COUSCOUS-PARSLEY SALAD WITH PRESERVED LEMON



Couscous-Parsley Salad with Preserved Lemon image

Provided by Food Network

Time 1h15m

Yield 8 appetizer servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1/4 cup couscous
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons olive oil
40 sprigs fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
30 fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
2 teaspoons finely diced Moroccan Preserved Lemon rind, recipe follows
1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 small tomato, peeled, seeded and diced
2 Belgian endives, separated into leaves, for scooping
12 unblemished lemons of equal size
Sea salt or table salt

Steps:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the couscous with the water and lemon juice. Let stand 1 hour.
  • To the couscous add the olive oil, parsley, mint, preserved lemon rind, pine nuts, salt and pepper. Mound the couscous in the center of a serving platter. Top with diced tomato. Surround the base with endive leaves. Serve at room temperature.
  • Scrub the lemons under running water and pat dry. Cut a thin slice from each end of a lemon. Set on end and make a vertical cut 3/4 of the way through the fruit, leaving the 2 halves attached. Turn the lemon upside down, rotate 90 degrees, and make a second vertical cut, again 3/4 of the way through the fruit. Fill each cut with as much salt as it will hold. Place the lemon in a sterilized, 1-quart size, wide-mouth canning jar. Proceed in this manner for the remaining lemons, pressing as many into the jar as possible. Seal and set aside at room temperature. Add additional lemons over the next few days as the rinds of the first lemons begin to soften. By this time, the juices should have risen to cover the lemons. If not, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice mixed with 1 teaspoon of salt. This will prevent the top lemons from darkening. Store at room temperature until the rinds become tender, and the pulp acquires the consistency of jam, 3 to 4 weeks. Refrigerate. Use within 6 months.
  • Yield: 1 quart

CHORIZO AND PRESERVED LEMON COUSCOUS



Chorizo and Preserved Lemon Couscous image

Chuck Hughes' deliciously tender chorizo mixed in with preserved lemon couscous will make everyone's mouth water.

Provided by Chuck Hughes

Categories     main-dish

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 cup/250ml Israeli couscous
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons/45ml olive oil
4 ounces/225g chorizo, diced
1 shallot, cut into very small dice
1 clove garlic, minced
Peel of 1 Preserved Lemon, recipe follows, finely chopped
A handful fresh chives, finely chopped
A handful fresh parsley, finely chopped
8 lemons
3 cups/750ml coarse salt
1 1/2 cups/375ml fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon/15ml peppercorns
4 fresh kaffir lime leaves

Steps:

  • Toast the couscous in a saucepan over medium heat until evenly golden, being careful not to burn it. Add 1 cup (250ml) water and a pinch of salt and cook until tender, 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until almost crispy, about 3 minutes. Add the shallot and cook until soft. Stir in the garlic and preserved lemon peel.
  • Stir the couscous into the chorizo mixture. Just before serving, drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Stir in the chives and parsley and season with salt and pepper.
  • Wash the lemons very well. Cut each lemon lengthwise in quarters without slicing all the way through, leaving the lemons whole. Place the lemons in a sterilized jar. Add the salt, lemon juice, peppercorns and kaffir lime leaves and mix well. Add more lemon juice if needed to just cover the lemons. Close with a lid and refrigerate. Stir the lemons every day or two to help dissolve the salt. Allow the lemons to cure for at least 1 week. Rinse under cold water before using.

ISRAELI COUSCOUS WITH ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PRESERVED LEMON



Israeli Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon image

Categories     Citrus     Nut     Pasta     Vegetable     Side     Roast     Vegetarian     Wedding     Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur     Dinner     Lemon     Raisin     Pine Nut     Squash     Butternut Squash     Healthy     Couscous     Gourmet     Vegan     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Peanut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher

Yield Makes 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 preserved lemon
1 1/2 pound butternut squash, peeled and seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch dice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 3/4 cups Israeli couscous or acini di pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta), about 1 pound
1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 475°F.
  • Halve lemons and scoop out flesh, keeping both flesh and peel. Cut enough peel into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/4 cup. Put lemon flesh in a sieve set over a bowl and press with back of a spoon to extract juice.
  • Toss squash with 1 tablespoon oil and salt to taste in a large shallow baking pan and spread in 1 layer. Roast in upper third of oven 15 minutes, or until squash is just tender, and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Cook onion in 1 tablespoon oil in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to turn golden. Add to squash.
  • Cook couscous with cinnamon stick in a large pot of boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until just tender, and drain in a colander (do not rinse). Add couscous to vegetables and toss with 2 tablespoon oil to coat.
  • Add lemon peel and juice, parsley, nuts, raisins, ground cinnamon, and salt to taste. Toss to mix well.
  • To adapt this recipe to serve 50:
  • 4 to 5 preserved lemons
  • 5 lb. butternut squash, peeled and seeded
  • 3/4 to 1 cup olive oil
  • 3 cups chopped onion
  • 7 cups Israeli couscous or acini di pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta), about 3 lb.
  • 4 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
  • 3 cups chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 2 cups pine nuts, toasted
  • 2 cups golden raisins
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Preheat oven to 475°F.
  • Halve lemons and scoop out flesh, keeping both flesh and peel. Cut enough peel into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1 cup. Put lemon flesh in a sieve set over a bowl and press with back of a spoon to extract juice.
  • Cut enough squash into 1/4-inch dice to measure about 12 cups and toss with 1/3 cup oil and salt to taste. Roast in single layers in batches in your largest shallow baking pan in upper third of oven 15 minutes, or until just tender.
  • Cook 1/2 of onion in 3 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to turn golden. Add to squash. Repeat with remaining onion and more oil.
  • Cook couscous with cinnamon sticks in an 8-qt. pot of boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until just tender, and drain in a colander (do not rinse). Toss couscous with 3 tablespoons oil in a large bowl. Add squash, onion, lemon peel and juice, and remaining ingredients. Season with salt (you'll need a lot) and toss to mix well.

ISRAELI COUSCOUS, PEAS, PRESERVED LEMONS, MINT & GOAT'S CHEESE



Israeli Couscous, Peas, Preserved Lemons, Mint & Goat's Cheese image

Provided by Itamar Srulovich

Categories     Low Fat     Vegetarian     Kid-Friendly     Quick & Easy     Low Cal     Dinner     Lunch     Goat Cheese     Mint     Pea     Healthy     Couscous     Parsley     Pescatarian     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher     Small Plates

Yield Serves 2 as a main or 4 as a side dish

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small leek, sliced and washed
4 cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced
2 heaped tsp salt
1 preserved lemon, diced
1 cup Israeli couscous (also called giant couscous or ptitim)
3 cups boiling water
1 cup shelled fresh peas
4 sprigs of mint, picked and chopped
4 sprigs of parsley, picked and chopped
4 oz goats' cheese of your choice

Steps:

  • Heat the oil in a large saute pan or non-stick wok. Fry the leeks and garlic on a medium heat for 2-3 minutes to soften, then add the salt and preserved lemon, and stir to combine. Tip in the Israeli couscous and continue frying for another 2 minutes or until the little couscous balls start to go golden.
  • Add half the boiling water and the peas. Boil until most of the water has soaked in, then add the rest of the water and cook on a high heat until it has also been sucked up by the couscous.
  • Remove from the heat, add the mint and parsley and stir well. Finally crumble the goats' cheese all over and serve.

VEGETABLE COUSCOUS WITH CHICKPEAS & PRESERVED LEMONS



Vegetable couscous with chickpeas & preserved lemons image

Moroccan cooking makes great use of humble vegetables, like in this veggie stew from John Torode

Provided by John Torode

Categories     Dinner, Main course

Time 1h5m

Number Of Ingredients 20

2l vegetable or chicken stock
3 tbsp harissa , homemade (see recipe below) or shop bought
3 carrots , chopped
3 large parsnips , chopped
2 red onions , cut into wedges through the root
2 large potatoes , chopped into chunks
½ butternut squash , chopped into chunks
4 leeks , sliced into rings
12 dried figs , halved
2 preserved lemons , homemade (see recipe below) or bought, rinsed, pulp scooped out and finely sliced
small bunch mint , chopped
200g couscous
400g can chickpea
25g butter
1 red onion , finely diced
3 spring onions , sliced
2 tbsp harissa
50ml olive oil
juice 1 lemon
bunch coriander , roughly chopped

Steps:

  • For the broth, bring the stock to a simmer in a large pan. Add the harissa and vegetables, bring back to the boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 mins. Add the figs and continue to cook for 5 mins more until the veg is tender.
  • Meanwhile, put the couscous and half the chickpeas into a bowl, add the butter, and season. Pour 350ml boiling water over the couscous, cover with cling film, leave aside for 10 mins, then fluff up with a fork.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the red onion, spring onions, harissa, olive oil, remaining chickpeas, lemon juice and coriander, then mix into the couscous. Pile onto a large deep serving dish, ladle over the braised vegetables and broth, and sprinkle with the preserved lemons and chopped mint.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 418 calories, Fat 13 grams fat, SaturatedFat 3 grams saturated fat, Carbohydrate 62 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 28 grams sugar, Fiber 11 grams fiber, Protein 9 grams protein, Sodium 1.6 milligram of sodium

Tips:

  • To make quick-preserved lemons, halve lemons and remove flesh. Combine lemon halves, salt, and garlic in a jar. Cover and shake to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 5 days before refrigerating.
  • To cook couscous, add it to boiling water or broth and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until tender.
  • For added flavor, toast the couscous in olive oil or butter before cooking.
  • Use different types of vegetables in your couscous dish, such as carrots, celery, onions, and peppers.
  • Add protein to your couscous dish by using cooked chicken, beef, lamb, or fish.
  • Serve couscous as a main course or a side dish.

Conclusion:

Couscous is a versatile and delicious grain that can be enjoyed in many different ways. The recipe for couscous with quick-preserved lemons is a great way to add flavor and zest to your next meal. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

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