Parmesan Spinach Couscous Recipe

Introduction

This Parmesan Spinach Couscous is a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Tender couscous is combined with sautéed onions, garlic, fresh spinach, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese for a savory and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 medium white onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups dry couscous
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup spinach

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 10 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: In a separate pot, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the couscous and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Remove the pot from heat immediately and cover. Let it stand for 5 minutes until the water is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked couscous, salt, Parmesan cheese, and spinach to the onion and garlic mixture. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts slightly.
5. Step 5: Taste and add additional salt if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, toast the couscous in the olive oil for a couple of minutes before adding water.
• Substitute fresh kale or arugula for the spinach if you prefer a different leafy green.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh note.
• Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for a richer taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the couscous moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it well before adding to the couscous to prevent excess moisture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Parmesan Spinach Couscous stores well and reheats nicely, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.

Parmesan Spinach Couscous Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 63 reviews

This Parmesan Spinach Couscous is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring fluffy couscous cooked to perfection with sautéed onions, garlic, fresh spinach, and nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple but delicious recipe that combines tender vegetables and creamy cheese for a comforting meal accompaniment.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1/2 medium white onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach

Grains and Liquids

• 1 1/2 cups dry couscous
• 2 1/2 cups water

Oils and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt

Dairy

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté onion: In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook couscous: In a separate pot, bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil. Add the dry couscous along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir briefly, then immediately remove the pot from heat and cover it. Let the couscous steam for 5 minutes until all water is absorbed.
4. Fluff couscous: After the couscous has absorbed the water, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Combine and cook: Add the fluffed couscous, salt, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts slightly and the cheese melts in.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and add more salt if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if you like.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• You can substitute baby spinach or other greens like kale, but cooking time may vary.
• For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Couscous cooks quickly; do not overcook or it may become mushy.
• Serve this dish as a side for grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.

Keywords: Parmesan, Spinach, Couscous, Side Dish, Quick, Mediterranean