Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds a delightful twist to any dish. It consists of small, round grains made from semolina flour, which give it a slightly chewy texture and a nutty flavor.
If you’re looking to elevate your couscous game, you must try the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous available at: https://riceselect.com/product/riceselect-pearl-couscous This high-quality product is perfect for our recipe, “Couscous with Avocado and Lemon,” and will take your culinary creations to the next level.
Ingredients
1 cup RiceSelect Pearl Couscous
2 ripe avocados
1 lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1
Cook the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
Step 2
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork until smooth.
Step 3
Zest the lemon and set aside the zest for later. Squeeze the lemon to extract the juice and add it to the mashed avocado.
Step 4
Add the chopped parsley and mint to the avocado mixture, along with the cooled couscous. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 5
In a small skillet, toast the sliced almonds over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6
Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the couscous mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 7
Sprinkle the toasted almonds and lemon zest over the couscous for added crunch and flavor.
Step 8
Serve the couscous with avocado and lemon as a refreshing side dish or as a light main course. Enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits Of Couscous With Avocado & Lemon
Fiber-Rich Pearl Couscous: RiceSelect Pearl Couscous is a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting healthy digestion, preventing constipation, and maintaining a feeling of fullness.
Healthy Fats from Avocado: Avocado is known for its high content of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Abundant Vitamins and Antioxidants: The addition of lemon zest and juice to the couscous brings a burst of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports a strong immune system and aids in collagen production.
Nutrient-Dense Herbs Fresh parsley and mint not only add a vibrant flavor to the dish but also bring a host of nutrients. These herbs are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.
Energy-Boosting Almonds: Sliced almonds sprinkled on top of the couscous provide a crunchy texture and a dose of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and supports skin health.
The Secret To Perfect Couscous
To achieve the best results with your couscous, it’s essential to follow a few secrets of preparation. Firstly, be sure to cook the couscous in well-seasoned water or broth to infuse it with extra flavor. Additionally, fluff the cooked couscous with a fork to prevent clumping and to create a light and fluffy texture.
Accompaniments For Couscous With Avocado & Lemon
Grilled Chicken
The tender and juicy flavors of grilled chicken are a wonderful match for the creamy avocado and zesty lemon in the couscous. Marinate the chicken in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs before grilling to enhance its taste. Serve the grilled chicken alongside the couscous for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful caramelized flavor. Consider roasting a medley of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the roasted vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Place them on a bed of couscous for a vibrant and nutrient-packed side dish.
Fresh Green Salad
A crisp and refreshing green salad is an excellent accompaniment to balance the creaminess of the avocado and the acidity of the lemon. Prepare a salad with a mix of fresh lettuce, baby spinach, arugula, or any other greens of your choice. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, radishes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Serve the salad alongside the couscous for a refreshing and well-rounded meal.
Grilled Shrimp
Succulent grilled shrimp adds a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to the couscous. Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. Grill them until they turn pink and slightly charred. Serve the grilled shrimp on top of a bed of couscous, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a delightful seafood pairing.
Lemon-Garlic Roasted Salmon
For seafood lovers, lemon-garlic roasted salmon is a perfect companion to the couscous. Roast a salmon fillet with a generous drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The flavors of the salmon will complement the citrusy notes of the lemon in the couscous, creating a harmonious combination of textures and tastes.
Proper Storage For Leftover Couscous
If you have any leftover couscous, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Place the cooled couscous in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. You can enjoy the leftovers cold as a refreshing salad or gently reheat it in the microwave or stovetop for a warm and comforting meal.
Now that you have learned how to make Couscous with Avocado and Lemon using the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous, you can impress your friends and family with this delightful and flavorful dish.
Remember the secrets to perfect couscous, experiment with different accompaniments, and store any leftovers correctly. Enjoy the combination of creamy avocado, zesty lemon, and nutty couscous for a refreshing and satisfying culinary experience.
