Elevate your side dish game with this elegant and flavorful Couscous with Pine Nuts recipe, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa. Perfectly fluffy couscous comes together in just 15 minutes, infused with the rich depth of chicken or vegetable stock, a touch of butter, and a hint of extra-virgin olive oil. Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and a subtle nuttiness, while freshly chopped parsley lends a burst of color and freshness. This versatile dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a standalone light meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is sure to impress your guests with its simplicity and sophistication.
In a small saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable stock, butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the dry couscous. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
While the couscous is resting, toast the pine nuts. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.
After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to break up any clumps and to add air for a light texture.
Stir in the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley into the couscous, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve warm as a side dish to accompany your favorite protein or vegetable dish.
Calories |
758 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.1 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.0 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1682 mg | 73% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 43.6 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 12.9 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 51 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 485 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.