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Easy Vegetarian Couscous photo

Vegetarian Couscous

This Vegetarian Couscous is quick, colorful, and packed with delicious veggies. Perfect for a nutritious meal prep or a vibrant weeknight dinner!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Easy, Healthy, Meal Prep, Quick, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 clove garlic crushed
  • 1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grilled peppers bottled and coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup leeks coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup carrots diced (about 1 medium carrot)
  • 1 cup zucchini diced (about 1 medium zucchini)
  • 1 cup eggplant diced (about 1/2 medium eggplant)
  • 1 1/4 cups couscous dry
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • Begin by washing and chopping your vegetables. Dice the carrots, zucchini, and eggplant, and coarsely chop the leeks and grilled peppers. Set aside.
  • In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  • Add the chopped leeks, carrots, zucchini, and eggplant to the pot. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  • Stir in the coarsely chopped grilled peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the other vegetables.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the dry couscous and ground black pepper. Stir well, then cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
  • After 5 minutes, uncover the pot and fluff the couscous with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Serving Dish

Notes

  • Use quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free alternative.
  • Try adding chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.