5-Day Couscous: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Vegetable Delight Recipe

Introduction

5-Day Couscous is a simple, versatile dish that keeps well and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Made with fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, it’s an easy meal to prepare in advance and customize to your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes), chopped
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or mint), chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the couscous according to package instructions, typically by pouring boiling water over the couscous, covering, and letting it steam for about 5 minutes until fluffy.
2. Step 2: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix in the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs evenly.
3. Step 3: Transfer the couscous mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
4. Step 4: Serve the couscous cold or at room temperature over several days, adding a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness before eating.

Tips & Variations

• Use different vegetables like roasted zucchini or carrots for varied flavor and texture.
• Add protein such as chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese to make it a more substantial meal.
• For extra zest, mix in lemon juice or a pinch of cumin.
• Toast the couscous lightly before cooking for a nuttier taste.

Storage

Store the couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can be eaten cold or brought to room temperature. If desired, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh its texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant couscous for this recipe?

Yes, instant couscous works well and cooks quickly, making the preparation faster and just as tasty.

How can I keep the couscous from getting mushy over several days?

Store it in an airtight container and avoid adding too much dressing or oil initially. Add fresh olive oil or lemon juice just before serving to keep the texture light and fresh.

5-Day Couscous: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Vegetable Delight Recipe

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This 5-Day Couscous recipe offers a versatile and easy base dish made with fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and olive oil. Perfect for meal prepping, this recipe allows you to prepare a healthy side or main component once and enjoy it throughout the week by simply storing and serving as needed. Ideal for quick lunches or dinners, it celebrates the light, fluffy texture of couscous combined with the freshness of vegetables and herbs enhanced by quality olive oil.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Couscous

• 1 ½ cups couscous
• 1 ½ cups boiling water or vegetable broth

Vegetables

• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (any color)

Herbs

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint (optional)

Others

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the couscous: Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous, cover tightly, and let it steam for 5-7 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff the couscous gently with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Prepare the vegetables and herbs: While the couscous is steaming, wash and chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, parsley, and mint if using. Combine these ingredients in a separate bowl.
3. Mix together: Add the chopped vegetables and herbs to the fluffed couscous. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Store properly: Divide the couscous mixture into airtight containers. Refrigerate immediately and store for up to 5 days.
5. Serve: When ready to eat, serve chilled or at room temperature. You can add extra olive oil, lemon juice, or fresh herbs as a finishing touch if desired.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Add other vegetables like grated carrot or zucchini for variety.
• Mint adds a refreshing taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
• Can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
• Keep couscous stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness throughout the week.

Keywords: couscous, meal prep, Mediterranean side dish, healthy couscous salad, easy couscous, make ahead, vegetarian dish