What to Serve with Couscous: 10 Delicious and Easy Side Dish Ideas!

Updated on 
27 April, 2023

What To Serve With Couscous

Serving up a delicious meal doesn't have to be complicated. Couscous is the perfect side dish for any occasion - it's easy to make and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

What To Serve With Couscous

But what should you serve with couscous? This article will provide you with some ideas that are sure to please everyone at your table. From roasted vegetables to grilled proteins, there's something here for everyone!

So read on to learn more about what goes best with couscous.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a great accompaniment to couscous. They provide a savory and flavorful contrast that pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy texture of the dish.

When roasting vegetables for a Middle Eastern-inspired meal, be sure to add Middle Eastern spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander to give it some Moroccan flavors. Additionally, try adding herbs like mint or parsley to brighten up the flavor profile.

Roasting vegetables is also an easy way to make your meal healthier while adding more depth to the dish. To finish off this side dish, drizzle olive oil over the roasted veggies before serving them alongside your couscous.

This simple yet delicious combination will be sure to bring you compliments from everyone around your table! With these roasted vegetables as part of your meal, you'll have everything you need to create a satisfying dish—all that's left is deciding what grilled protein will complete it.

Grilled Proteins

Roasted vegetables are the perfect accompaniment to couscous, as they lend a smoky, earthy flavor to the dish. To add a little more variety, why not try grilling some proteins to go with it?

Marinated tofu and citrus chicken are great options for adding savory notes and would pair very nicely with couscous. The marinade on the tofu or chicken can also be used to give your couscous extra flavor. Grill up some vegetables alongside them for an even more delicious meal!

The possibilities don't end there; if you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating stews and soups into the mix. Hearty soup bases such as lentil or bean soup can elevate your couscous dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Consider using different herbs and spices that will work well with both the couscous and whatever type of soup you choose.

However you decide to serve it, couscous is sure to please every palate!

Stews And Soups

Couscous is a versatile side dish, which pairs well with a variety of stews and soups.

Here are some delicious options to serve alongside couscous:

  • Spiced tofu stew with carrots and bell peppers
  • Marinated tempeh in tomato sauce
  • Lentil and potato soup
  • Green vegetable curry
  • Creamy sweet potato soup

These hearty stews and soups provide an excellent accompaniment to couscous. They also add flavor, texture, and color to the plate.

For a lighter option, try serving couscous alongside a crisp salad.

Salads

As the saying goes, 'variety is the spice of life', and this is certainly true when it comes to deciding what to serve with couscous. A great way to add variety to a couscous dish is by including salads.

Salads

Salads are a great accompaniment to couscous because they are light, fresh and full of flavor. There are many different types of salads that can be served with couscous, such as one made of fresh fruits or pickled vegetables. Each type of salad brings its own unique flavor profile and texture which will enhance the overall dining experience. Moreover, salads provide an excellent source of vitamins and minerals which can make the meal more nutritious.

With so many options available, there's sure to be something for everyone when it comes to pairing salads with couscous. To further enhance the meal, consider adding dips and sauces that complement the flavors present in the salads and couscous. These condiments can bring out different flavors in the dish while also adding more texture and color to make it look more appetizing. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to combining dips and sauces with couscous. From creamy tzatziki sauce to roasted garlic hummus, there's sure to be something for everyone at the table!

Moving on from salads...

Dips And Sauces

Moving away from salads, one can also serve couscous with a variety of dips and sauces. These can range from store-bought dressings to homemade marinades. The best way to enjoy couscous is to incorporate seasonings that bring out the flavor of the dish.

Here are 5 great accompaniments for couscous:

  • Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar
  • Tahini Sauce
  • Roasted Garlic & Lemon Juice
  • Pesto & Parmesan Cheese
  • Spicy Tomato Salsa

These options provide a variety of flavors that can be used to enhance any couscous dish. Whether you're looking for something savory or sweet, there's sure to be an option that will fit your needs.

For those wanting something a bit more adventurous, trying adding in some herbs and spices such as cumin or paprika for an extra kick. Adding these seasonings will surely make your next couscous dish stand out from the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type Of Couscous Should I Use?

When it comes to couscous, the possibilities are nearly endless! But if you're looking for a delicious and nutritious dish, selecting the right type of couscous is key.

Whether you're preparing it the traditional way by boiling or steaming it, or you prefer a more modern cooking method like microwaving, there are a variety of couscous varieties that are sure to fit your needs.

Not only does couscous offer plenty of nutritional benefits, but its light texture and mild flavor also make it an ideal pairing with a variety of dishes.

How Do I Cook Couscous?

Cooking couscous is easy, and depending on the type you're using, the cooking times can vary.

If you're using pre-steamed couscous, it's just a matter of heating it in boiling water for 8-10 minutes.

How Do I Cook Couscous?

If you have traditional dry couscous, however, you'll need to bring the water to a boil before adding your couscous and then letting it simmer for about 10 more minutes.

For more interesting variations, try adding spices or herbs during the cooking process to give your dish an extra flavor boost!

What Is The Best Way To Season Couscous?

Stir frying couscous is one of the best ways to season it.

The key is to add herbs, in which case you can use a variety of different types depending on your preferences.

For instance, adding some garlic powder and fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano can make all the difference.

Additionally, you can also add a bit of salt and pepper for extra flavor.

All of these ingredients combined make for a delicious side dish that everyone will enjoy!

How Much Couscous Should I Prepare Per Person?

When it comes to couscous, the golden rule of thumb is to plan for a quarter cup per person.

But if you're looking to serve generous helpings, half a cup per person should do the trick!

Whatever your serving size preference, be sure to store any leftover couscous in an airtight container, as exposure to air will cause it to quickly lose its moisture and become dry and hard.

Is Couscous Gluten Free?

Couscous is a popular dish that is often served as a side or a main dish.

It's simple to prepare and is great for those with dietary restrictions.

Many are concerned about whether or not couscous is gluten free.

The good news is that it can be, depending on how it's made!

Traditional couscous is usually wheat-based, so if you have an allergy to gluten, you should check the ingredients list before consuming it.

However, there are also gluten-free options available that are made from cornstarch, rice flour, or even quinoa.

So if you're looking for gluten free options, couscous may be an ideal choice!

Conclusion

My conclusion about what to serve with couscous is that it's a versatile and delicious side dish. It pairs well with many dishes, from stews and roasts to salads.

Is Couscous Gluten Free?

I suggest trying different seasonings and ingredients when cooking couscous, so you can find the perfect combination for your family or guests.

When it comes to quantity, remember that couscous expands when cooked - 1/2 cup of dry couscous is enough for one person. Plus, couscous is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

So why not try out this tasty side dish tonight? You won't regret it!

Jennifer
Jennifer is a certified nutritionist and weight loss coach with a Master's in Nutrition from Cambridge. With over 10 years experience, she shares healthy recipes and science-backed slimming tips on SheCooksSheEats to help people reach their wellness goals. Jennifer stays up-to-date by regularly attending conferences and continuing her nutrition education. She aims to provide research-backed advice to inspire balanced, happy living.
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