Description
A quick and flavorful Lemon Parmesan Pearl Couscous recipe that combines tender toasted pearl couscous with garlic, rich chicken stock, sharp Parmesan cheese, and a hint of fresh lemon juice. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a light main course, ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 1 1/2 cups (8 ounces) pearl couscous
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
- 1 cup (1 ounce) freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the garlic and couscous: Melt the butter in a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the pressed or minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning and to release the garlic’s aroma. Then add the pearl couscous to the pan and continue sautéing for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the couscous is lightly toasted and golden.
- Simmer the couscous: Pour in the chicken stock, and season with the fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check if the couscous has absorbed most of the liquid and is al dente. If necessary, add up to ¼ cup more chicken stock or water to finish cooking.
- Finish the dish: Remove the pan from heat, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the optional lemon juice. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts and all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Serve: Serve the lemon Parmesan pearl couscous warm as a delicious side dish or light main course. Enjoy!
Notes
- To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and Parmesan or use dairy-free alternatives.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, increase lemon juice to 2 tablespoons.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of water or stock to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
