Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish

If you’re on the lookout for a simple yet flavorful side dish, look no further than this Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a delightful blend of flavors, this dish is a perfect complement to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, this couscous is sure to steal the spotlight. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Whole wheat couscous is a fantastic source of fiber and protein, making it a wholesome option for anyone looking to add more nutrients to their diet. The addition of green onions gives it a fresh crunch, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness that pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the couscous. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a side dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

What You’ll Need

To make this delightful side dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat couscous
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (see notes)
• 5 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup finely-grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Medium saucepan: For cooking the couscous.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the couscous with other ingredients.
• Fork: For fluffing the couscous once cooked.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Stepwise Method: Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish

Step 1: Boil the Broth

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. This will infuse the couscous with flavor.

Step 2: Add the Couscous

Once the broth is boiling, remove it from heat and stir in the 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat couscous. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Fluff the Couscous

After 5 minutes, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the couscous gently. This will help separate the grains and give it a light texture.

Step 4: Mix in Ingredients

Add the thinly sliced green onions and finely grated Parmesan cheese to the couscous. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Finally, add fresh ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the couscous to a serving dish and enjoy it warm as a side to your favorite main course.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up this Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish, consider the following adjustments:

• Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or replace it with a lighter cheese alternative.
• Use low-sodium broth to cut down on salt.
• Incorporate more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, for added volume without added calories.

Learn from These Mistakes

When preparing this dish, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overcooking the couscous can lead to a mushy texture, so be sure to follow the instructions closely.
• Not fluffing the couscous after cooking can result in clumps, so don’t skip this crucial step.
• Using stale or old couscous may affect the flavor and texture, so always check the freshness of your ingredients.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To enjoy your Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish for days to come, consider the following storage tips:

• Store leftover couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
• Consider freezing portions for longer storage. Just be sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly.

Common Qs About Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish

Can I use regular couscous instead of whole wheat?

Yes, regular couscous can be used, but keep in mind that it may have a different texture and slightly different nutritional profile.

What can I serve this couscous with?

This Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for a salad. You could also try it alongside Harvest Farro Butternut Salad for a wholesome meal.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Next Up in Your Queue

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:

• Roasted Cauliflower Salad With Lemon Tahini Dressing
• Harvest Farro Butternut Salad

Let’s Eat

Now that you have your Whole Wheat Couscous Side Dish ready, it’s time to dig in! This dish not only enhances your meal with its delightful flavors and textures but also fills your plate with healthy goodness. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Enjoy every bite and share it with those you love!