Couscous with Olives and Lemon
Bright, zesty, and effortless to prepare, this Couscous with Olives and Lemon is a Mediterranean-inspired side dish that's bursting with flavor. Fluffy couscous is infused with the vibrant tang of fresh lemon juice and zest, complemented by the savory richness of sliced green or black olives and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Garlic and parsley add a fragrant, herbaceous depth, while optional toasted almonds provide a delightful crunch—perfect for elevating both texture and taste. Ready in just 20 minutes, this versatile recipe can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether paired with grilled seafood, roasted vegetables, or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a quick and healthy way to bring sunshine to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1.25 cups water
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.5 cup pitted green or black olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup optional toasted almonds, chopped
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring 1.25 cups of water to a boil.
Stir in the couscous, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 0.25 teaspoon of salt. Remove the saucepan from heat, cover with a lid, and let the couscous steam for 5 minutes.
While the couscous steams, in a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, 0.25 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper.
Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork to separate the grains, then transfer it to a large serving bowl.
Pour the lemon dressing over the couscous and toss gently to coat the grains evenly.
Add the sliced olives, chopped parsley, and optional toasted almonds, if using. Mix thoroughly to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
800 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.1 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.2 g | 36% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2404 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.4 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.1 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 14.3 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 218 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 459 mg | 10% | |
*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.
