Shrimp Couscous: A Light and Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
Looking for a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal? Shrimp Couscous is the perfect dish to impress your guests or treat yourself to a healthy and tasty dinner.
With tender shrimp and fluffy couscous, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with delicious flavors. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing dish!
Ingredients:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 cup couscous
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion (finely chopped)
1 garlic clove (minced)
1/2 bell pepper (diced)
1 small zucchini (diced)
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled, optional)
1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts (optional for extra crunch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Couscous
Start by preparing the couscous. In a medium-sized pot, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the water is boiling, stir in the couscous, cover the pot, and remove it from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs all the water. Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While the couscous is resting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Then add the diced zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables and toss everything together. Add the cooked couscous and stir until the shrimp and vegetables are evenly mixed with the couscous. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture and give it a final toss.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Shrimp Couscous to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts if using. Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant Mediterranean dish!
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Couscous:
Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers to give the dish a different twist.
Protein Options: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try substituting it with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Shrimp Couscous is a simple yet sophisticated dish that combines the delicate flavor of shrimp with the light and fluffy texture of couscous, all complemented by fresh vegetables and vibrant seasonings.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for a meal that’s both healthy and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress!