Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant Couscous with Apricot Vinaigrette recipe, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Fluffy couscous is combined with toasted slivered almonds and fresh parsley, then dressed in a luscious homemade apricot vinaigrette featuring dried apricots, honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of lemon zest. This quick and easy dish, ready in just 20 minutes, is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or elegant gatherings. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a versatile and refreshing side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a light standalone meal. Perfect for foodies who crave wholesome, flavor-packed recipes!
Bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
Remove the pot from heat, stir in 1 cup of couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done and set aside.
To prepare the apricot vinaigrette, finely chop the dried apricots into small pieces and place them in a bowl.
Add 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the bowl.
Slowly whisk in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until the vinaigrette is well combined and emulsified. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
In a serving bowl, combine the cooked couscous, chopped parsley, and toasted slivered almonds. Pour the apricot vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Calories |
819 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 51.0 g | 65% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.1 g | 36% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1614 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83.0 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.7 g | ||
| Protein | 11.1 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 121 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 818 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.