Carrot and Cilantro Couscous

Brighten up your meal with this vibrant Carrot and Cilantro Couscous—a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed side dish or light main course. Fluffy couscous serves as the perfect canvas for earthy cumin, sweet grated carrots, zesty lemon juice, and fresh cilantro, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes. A hint of garlic adds depth, while optional toasted slivered almonds bring a satisfying crunch. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, making it perfect for anything from weeknight dinners to meal prep. Serve it warm, chilled, or at room temperature, and pair it with your favorite grilled proteins or enjoy it as a standalone dish. Rich in nutrients and brimming with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this Carrot and Cilantro Couscous is sure to become a household favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 medium carrots
• 0.25 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.25 cups slivered almonds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt, and ground cumin. Stir to combine.

Step 2

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.

Step 3

While the couscous is resting, peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Set aside.

Step 4

Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 5

Add the grated carrots, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the couscous. Stir until well combined.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Step 7

If using, toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle over the couscous for added texture and flavor.

Step 8

Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(747.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	658.9

Total Fat 42.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1598.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 62.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.2g	0%
Total Sugars 8.9g
Protein 15.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 194.7mg	0%
Iron 4.3mg	0%
Potassium 910.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.3%

Protein: 8.7%

Carbs: 35.9%