Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter , divided
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup shallot , finely chopped
1 1/2 cups israeli couscous
1/2 large cinnamon stick
1 bay leaf ( fresh if you have it ! )
1 3/4 cups vegetable broth ( or chicken broth )
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fresh parsley , minced
1/2 lemon , zest of
1/4 cup raisins
fresh cracked black pepper , to taste
Israeli Couscous With Pine Nuts and Fresh Parsley is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that features small, pearl-shaped pasta grains called Israeli couscous. These grains are cooked in a cinnamon and bay leaf-infused broth and then tossed with toasted pine nuts, fresh parsley, plump raisins, and lemon zest for a delicious and aromatic flavor. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be served on its own as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. Israeli Couscous With Pine Nuts and Fresh Parsley is a healthy and satisfying option for those looking to incorporate more whole grains and plant-based protein into their diet.

Instructions

1.Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2.Add the pine nuts to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned, stirring frequently.
3.Remove the pine nuts and set them aside.
4.In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the shallots for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
5.Add the Israeli couscous, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf to the pan and stir well.
6.Pour the broth into the pan and sprinkle in the salt.
7.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
8.Cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9.Remove the pan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick and bay leaf.
10.Stir in the pine nuts, parsley, raisins, lemon zest, and black pepper.
11.Serve hot or cold.

PROS

This recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

The couscous is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious and healthy main dish option.

CONS

Some people may find the texture of the couscous to be a bit too chewy or gritty.

This dish also contains pine nuts, which can be a common allergen for some individuals.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Israeli couscous is made from wheat flour and is similar in nutritional composition to pasta or rice.
It is a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and plant-based protein, making it a filling and satisfying option for vegetarians or vegans.
Pine nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, which have been linked to a variety of health benefits including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.

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