Savory Couscous Medley with Corn
This delightful Savory Couscous Medley with Corn transforms ordinary couscous into a vibrant, flavorful dish that's perfect as a side or light main course. The soothing aroma of sautéed shallots complements the earthy sweetness of fresh or frozen corn, while a touch of cayenne adds just the right hint of warmth. Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a healthy option for those watching their cholesterol intake. Feel free to add chopped red or green bell peppers for additional color and nutrition!
2-4 servings
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or Olive Oil
1 1/2 teaspoons (Melted)
Shallot
1 (Minced)
Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
1 cup (Ready to use)
Couscous
3/4 cup (Dry)
Fresh Corn or Thawed Frozen Corn
1/3 cup (If using frozen, thawed)
Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Cayenne Pepper
1 pinch (Optional)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (To taste)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or olive oil) over medium heat.
2
Add the minced shallot and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it's soft and translucent.
3
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and increase the heat to bring the liquid to a boil.
4
Once boiling, add the couscous, fresh or thawed corn, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. Stir to combine.
5
Cover the saucepan with a lid, remove it from heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the flavors.
6
After 5 minutes, uncover and fluff the couscous gently with a fork. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Couscous Medley with Corn?
It is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring couscous, sautéed shallots, and corn, suitable as a side or light main course.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The dish is quick and easy to prepare, taking under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly provided you use vegetable broth and either butter or olive oil.
Is this a low-cholesterol recipe?
Yes, it is described as a healthy option for those monitoring their cholesterol intake.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients are couscous, corn, shallots, broth, and seasonings like black pepper and cayenne.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 2 to 4 servings.
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either fresh corn or thawed frozen corn.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil as a healthy alternative to butter.
How do I prepare the shallot?
The shallot should be finely minced before being sautéed in the saucepan.
What type of broth should I use?
You can use either chicken broth or vegetable broth depending on your preference.
Is the cayenne pepper required?
No, the cayenne pepper is optional and adds just a hint of warmth if used.
How long do I sauté the shallots?
Sauté the minced shallots for 1 to 2 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
How much couscous is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of dry couscous.
Do I need to boil the couscous?
No, you add the couscous to boiling liquid, then remove the pan from the heat to let it absorb the liquid.
How long should the couscous sit after removing from heat?
It should sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb and the couscous to soften.
What is the best way to finish the dish before serving?
After sitting for 5 minutes, uncover the pan and gently fluff the couscous with a fork.
Can I add other vegetables to this medley?
Yes, adding chopped red or green bell peppers is recommended for extra color and nutrition.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It combines the earthy sweetness of corn with the savory aroma of sautéed shallots and a hint of warmth from cayenne.
How much salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to your personal taste.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, with a total time of under 20 minutes, it is ideal for quick meals.
What is the amount of broth needed?
The recipe calls for exactly 1 cup of broth.
What amount of corn is used?
You should use 1/3 cup of fresh or thawed frozen corn.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
The recipe recommends serving the couscous medley warm.
Does this recipe use black pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper for seasoning.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a medium saucepan with a lid and a fork for fluffing the couscous.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply use olive oil instead of butter and vegetable broth to make the entire dish vegan.
How much cayenne pepper should I use?
Only a single pinch is needed, and it is entirely optional.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
The tags include couscous, corn, low cholesterol, quick meals, healthy sides, and vegetarian.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Yes, the simple instructions and short cooking time make it perfect for novice cooks.
Does the corn need to be cooked before adding it to the pot?
No, it is added to the boiling broth with the couscous and finishes cooking while the pot sits off the heat.