Spicy Citrus Couscous
Brighten up your table with this Spicy Citrus Couscous, a vibrant and zesty dish that fuses fluffy couscous with bold, aromatic spices and a refreshing citrus twist. Infused with freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices, fragrant zests, and a hint of honey for optional sweetness, this recipe delivers perfectly balanced flavors with every bite. A dash of cayenne pepper and chopped red chili adds a gentle kick, while fresh parsley and green onions create a burst of freshness. Ready in just 15 minutes, this versatile dish can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature, making it a perfect side or light main course. Whether you’re craving something tangy, spicy, or refreshing, this easy-to-make dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1.25 cups boiling water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.25 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped
Instructions
Place the couscous in a medium-sized heatproof bowl.
Bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the couscous. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and stir to combine. Cover the bowl with a plate or lid and allow the couscous to sit and steam for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, honey (if using), salt, black pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Set aside.
Once the couscous has absorbed all the water, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
Pour the citrus-spice dressing over the fluffed couscous and gently toss to combine.
Fold in the chopped parsley, green onions, and finely chopped red chili for a fresh burst of flavor and a touch of heat.
Taste and adjust with additional salt or lemon juice if needed.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled as a side dish, or enjoy it as a light, refreshing main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
537 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.8 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1529 mg | 66% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.2 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.0 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.0 g | ||
| Protein | 10.0 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 217 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1030 mg | 22% | |
*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.
