Saffron Couscous
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and aromatic Saffron Couscous, a quick and elegant recipe that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Fluffy couscous is infused with the warm, golden hues of saffron and simmered in richly flavored chicken or vegetable broth for an irresistibly fragrant base. Enhanced with a subtle nutty crunch from toasted slivered almonds and a refreshing burst of lemon zest, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. A touch of fresh parsley adds brightness, while olive oil and butter provide a luscious, silky texture. Perfect as a versatile side for Mediterranean-inspired meals or a light vegetarian option, this saffron couscous is sure to impress both your eyes and your taste buds.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1.25 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.25 teaspoons saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted (optional)
Instructions
In a small saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the saffron threads, stirring gently to allow the saffron to bloom. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to infuse the broth with saffron's flavor and color.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the couscous and toast lightly for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly golden.
Pour the saffron-infused broth into the saucepan with the couscous. Add salt and pepper, stirring gently to combine.
Cover the saucepan with a lid and remove it from the heat. Let the couscous steam for 5 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the couscous with a fork, gently breaking apart any clumps. Add the lemon zest, fresh parsley, and slivered almonds (if using). Stir to combine evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed. Serve warm as a side dish, garnished with additional parsley or almonds if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
636 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.0 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.9 g | 60% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 1665 mg | 72% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42.5 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| Protein | 10.7 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 89 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 338 mg | 7% | |
*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.
