Savory Spinach and Onion Couscous Delight
This Savory Spinach and Onion Couscous Delight is a wholesome and vibrant dish that perfectly combines the earthy flavors of spinach, the sweetness of onions, and the nutty richness of toasted pecans. Ideal as a side dish or a light main meal, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The addition of fresh Parmesan and a splash of lemon juice elevates the dish, making it a delightful addition to any dining table. Serve it warm, and savor the delicious blend of flavors!
N/A
Servings
234
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion
1 (medium, chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
Chicken broth
1 (14 1/2 ounce can)
Frozen chopped spinach
1 (10 ounce package)
Couscous
1 (10 ounce package)
Parmesan cheese
3/4 (cup, freshly grated)
Lemon juice
2 (tablespoons)
Salt
(to taste)
Fresh ground pepper
(to taste)
Pecans
1/2 (cup, chopped and toasted)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, approximately 4-5 minutes.
2
Pour in the chicken broth and add the frozen chopped spinach to the saucepan. Stir and cook, allowing the spinach to thaw and heat through, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4
Once boiling, add the couscous to the pan. Stir the ingredients together, ensuring the couscous is evenly distributed.
5
Remove the saucepan from heat and cover it with a lid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the liquid is completely absorbed by the couscous.
6
After the couscous has absorbed all the liquid, add the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in the toasted chopped pecans, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
7
Serve the couscous warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or pecans if desired.
Nutrition Information
12
Fat
23
Carbs
8
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Spinach and Onion Couscous Delight?
It is a wholesome and vibrant dish combining earthy spinach, sweet onions, and nutty toasted pecans for a nutritious side or main meal.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
The recipe tags include vegetarian, but it uses chicken broth. To make it strictly vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 234 calories.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but you may need to increase the volume as fresh spinach wilts down significantly when cooked.
What is the fat content of this couscous recipe?
The dish contains 12 grams of fat per serving.
How do I toast the pecans for this recipe?
You can toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly browned.
Is this dish high in protein?
It provides a moderate amount of protein, with 8 grams per serving.
How long does it take for the couscous to absorb the liquid?
Once removed from heat and covered, the couscous typically takes about 5 minutes to fully absorb the liquid.
What type of couscous should I use?
The recipe is designed for standard Moroccan-style couscous which cooks quickly by steaming in hot liquid.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, couscous is made from semolina wheat and contains gluten. You can substitute it with quinoa for a similar gluten-free option.
How much fiber is in this dish?
The exact fiber count is not specified, but the inclusion of spinach and pecans provides a natural source of dietary fiber.
Can I use red onion instead of regular onion?
Yes, red onion can be used and will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice?
The lemon juice adds a splash of acidity that brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the Parmesan and pecans.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be served cold?
While best served warm, it can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad.
Do I need to thaw the frozen spinach first?
The instructions suggest adding it directly to the hot broth to thaw and heat through, so pre-thawing is not strictly necessary.
What can I substitute for pecans?
Toasted walnuts, pine nuts, or slivered almonds are excellent alternatives if pecans are unavailable.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 23 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is a great meal prep option as it is quick to make and reheats well.
What is the role of garlic in this recipe?
Minced garlic is sautéed with the onions to provide a fragrant, aromatic base for the dish.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
You can use water, but using broth adds significantly more depth and savory flavor to the couscous.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 11 ingredients, including staples like salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Can I freeze this couscous dish?
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the spinach and couscous may become softer upon thawing.
How do I prevent the couscous from sticking?
Stirring the couscous into the boiling mixture before covering and letting it sit helps ensure even distribution and prevents clumping.
Is this a kid-friendly meal?
Yes, the mild flavors and soft texture of couscous usually make it a hit with children.
Can I add extra protein to this?
Absolutely; grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp would pair beautifully with these flavors.
What size onion should I use?
The recipe calls for one medium-sized onion, chopped.
How much Parmesan cheese is included?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Is it necessary to use freshly ground pepper?
While pre-ground pepper works, freshly ground pepper offers a more potent and floral flavor that enhances the final dish.