Saffron Scallion Couscous
Infused with the warmth of aromatic saffron and the bright freshness of scallions, Saffron Scallion Couscous is a vibrant and versatile side dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Fluffy couscous is steeped in golden saffron water, enriched with olive oil, and finished with zesty lemon and a sprinkle of black pepper for a balance of flavors that’s light yet indulgent. Finely sliced scallions add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, while optional garnishes like toasted slivered almonds and fresh parsley provide extra texture and herbaceous flair. Perfect as a complement to grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables, this easy couscous recipe brings sophistication to the table with minimal effort.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1.25 cups water
- 0.25 teaspoons saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 stalks scallions (green onions), finely sliced
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Add the saffron threads and stir to combine, allowing the saffron to steep in the hot water for 2-3 minutes. The water will develop a golden-yellow color.
Stir in the olive oil and salt, then bring the saffron-infused water to a boil.
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add the couscous. Stir well to ensure all the grains are coated and submerged in the liquid.
Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let the couscous sit for 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid fully.
While the couscous is steaming, finely slice the scallions and zest the lemon. If using almonds or parsley, prepare them as well.
After 5 minutes, remove the lid from the couscous and fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
Stir in the sliced scallions, black pepper, and lemon zest, mixing until evenly distributed.
Transfer the couscous to a serving dish and garnish with toasted slivered almonds and fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or as a base for grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
536 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.7 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.0 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1501 mg | 65% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.9 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.6 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.2 g | ||
| Protein | 10.2 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 99 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 337 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.
