Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant Pistachio Couscous recipe, a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece bursting with flavor and texture. Fluffy couscous is infused with savory vegetable broth and tossed with toasted pistachios, fresh parsley, and mint for a refreshing herbal kick. The addition of dried cranberries offers a pop of sweetness, while a bright splash of lemon juice and zest ties everything together beautifully. This quick and easy dish, ready in just 20 minutes, is perfect for busy weeknights or as an elegant side for dinner parties. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, or as a light vegetarian main course. Healthy, colorful, and utterly satisfying, Pistachio Couscous is the perfect blend of nutty, citrusy, and savory goodness!
In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
While the broth is heating, place the couscous in a large heatproof bowl.
Once the broth is boiling, remove it from the heat and pour it over the couscous. Cover the bowl with a lid or plate and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
Meanwhile, toast the pistachios in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool.
Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Drizzle the olive oil over the couscous and mix well to coat evenly.
Stir the toasted pistachios, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and dried cranberries (if using) into the couscous.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course.
Calories |
1020 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.3 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.0 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2329 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 111.3 g | 40% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.7 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.9 g | ||
| Protein | 24.5 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 167 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 5.8 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 1475 mg | 31% | |
*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.