Saffron Couscous with Fresh Peas and Chives
Brighten up your table with the vibrant flavors of Saffron Couscous with Fresh Peas and Chives, a stunning dish that combines aromatic saffron-infused couscous with sweet, tender peas and a fresh pop of chives. This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 20 minutes, is perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish. The saffron threads add a luxurious golden hue and floral depth, while blanched fresh peas bring bright color and natural sweetness. Finished with a delicate combination of butter, olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper, this dish is both elegant and comforting. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your next gathering, this recipe is a celebration of simple yet sophisticated ingredients.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1.25 cups vegetable broth
- 0.25 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 cup fresh peas (shelled)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
In a small pot, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the saffron threads and stir to infuse the broth with flavor. Reduce the heat to low and keep the broth warm.
In a heatproof bowl, add the couscous. Pour the saffron-infused broth over the couscous, quickly stir, and cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Meanwhile, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh peas and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender. Drain the peas and set aside.
After 5 minutes, uncover the couscous and fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the olive oil. Stir in the blanched peas and cook for 1-2 minutes to coat them in the buttery oil mixture.
Add the fluffed couscous to the skillet along with the chopped chives, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and heat through for 2 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a light main meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
682 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.7 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 2195 mg | 95% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 84.6 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.2 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.9 g | ||
| Protein | 22.3 g | 45% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 113 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 5.3 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 1127 mg | 24% | |
*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.
