Best 3 Middle Eastern Couscous Side Dish Recipes

Tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey to the vibrant Middle East, where couscous reigns supreme as a versatile and delectable side dish. This tiny, golden-hued grain forms the foundation of an array of enticing recipes, each bursting with unique flavors and aromas. From the classic Lebanese Couscous with Vegetables, a harmonious blend of tender couscous, colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs, to the hearty Moroccan Couscous with Chicken, a savory symphony of succulent chicken, caramelized onions, and warm spices.

Embark on a culinary adventure with our carefully curated collection of Middle Eastern couscous side dishes. Discover the zesty charm of the Israeli Couscous Salad, where fresh herbs, tangy lemon dressing, and crunchy vegetables dance together in perfect harmony. Delight in the smoky allure of the Spiced Lamb and Couscous Pilaf, where tender lamb, aromatic spices, and fluffy couscous create a symphony of flavors.

For a vegetarian delight, explore the vibrant flavors of the Roasted Vegetable Couscous, a medley of roasted vegetables nestled in a bed of fluffy couscous, kissed with a touch of aromatic herbs. And for those with a sweet tooth, the Couscous with Honey and Pistachios offers a sweet and nutty indulgence, where couscous mingles with honey, crunchy pistachios, and a hint of warm spices.

Each recipe promises an explosion of flavors, textures, and aromas, capturing the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. So, embark on this culinary journey, embrace the vibrant spirit of the Middle East, and let your taste buds savor the delights of couscous in all its glory.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

MIDDLE EASTERN COUSCOUS WITH DRIED FRUIT

Middle Eastern Couscous with Dried Fruit image

Provided by Food Network

Categories side-dish

Time 15m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup raisins
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon coriander
1 1/2 cups packaged couscous
2 cups boiling water
3/4 teaspoon salt

Steps:

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil. Add the raisins, garlic, cinnamon, cumin, and coriander. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the couscous to the saucepan, along with the 2 cups of boiling water and the salt. Stir once with a fork, cover tightly, and remove from the heat. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Stir with a fork before serving to fluff the couscous and combine the other ingredients. (This recipe can be made up to a day ahead and reheated over very low heat or in a microwave oven.)

MIDDLE EASTERN COUSCOUS SALAD

Middle Eastern Couscous Salad image

A relatively quick and easy lunchtime salad that's brimming with flavour and vitality - entirely original recipe.

Provided by ID2448

Categories Vegan

Time 45m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

12 ounces couscous
1 lb eggplant
9 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 teaspoons ground cumin
1 lemon
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
seasoning
12 black olives, stoned and roughly chopped
6 tablespoons coriander, chopped
2 ounces pine nuts, toasted

Steps:

Soak the couscous in 9 fluid ounces cold water.
Pre-heat the oven to 200°C Cut the eggplant into 1/4" slices, cut these in 2 lengthways then cut all across in 1/4" slices (you should end up with short'chip'-shaped pieces).
Toss in 3 tablespoons of the oil, 2 teaspoons of the cumin and a little seasoning then roast in the oven for 15- 20 mintes, until softened.
Meanwhile, prepare the dressing: zest the lemon, adding the zest to the couscous then juice and add about 1 teaspoon of salt.
Allow to dissolve, then add the garlic plus the remaining cumin and olive oil.
Whisk thoroughly and add to the couscous- this will be partially absorbed.
When the eggplant is cooked, allow to cool a little then stir into the couscous, along with the olives, coriander and pine nuts.
Toss well and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 738.9, Fat 42.7, SaturatedFat 5.2, Sodium 131, Carbohydrate 78.9, Fiber 10.6, Sugar 3.2, Protein 14.7

MIDDLE EASTERN COUSCOUS RECIPE - (4.6/5)

MIDDLE EASTERN COUSCOUS Recipe - (4.6/5) image

Provided by Chef Dave

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 Tbs olive oil
1 garlic clove chopped
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/8 tsp ground coriander
1/8 tsp black pepper
3/4 tsp salt
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups couscous
1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped greek olives(from the olive bar)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Steps:

1. Combine all ingredients EXCEPT the couscous, cranberries, olives and feta cheese. 2. Bring to a boil in a large teflon pan with a lid. 3. Turn off the heat. 4. Stir in the couscous and cover. 5. Let sit for 5 minutes. 6. Fluff with a rubber scraper and sir in the cranberries, olives and feta. 7. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Tips:

Use high-quality couscous for the best flavor and texture.
Rinse the couscous before cooking to remove any dirt or impurities.
Use a 1:2 ratio of couscous to liquid (water or broth) for perfectly cooked couscous.
Fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to separate the grains and prevent clumping.
Season the couscous with salt and pepper to taste.
Add your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables to the couscous for a flavorful side dish.
Serve the couscous hot or cold, as a side dish or main course.

Conclusion:

Middle Eastern couscous is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, couscous is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, stews, and salads. It can also be used as a main course, topped with vegetables, proteins, or sauces. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special dish to serve at a party, Middle Eastern couscous is a great option. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to find your favorite combination.