Cheat's Easy Spiced Couscous with Fruit and Nuts in a Jar

Elevate meal prep with this vibrant and flavorful Cheat's Easy Spiced Couscous with Fruit and Nuts in a Jar—a quick, no-fuss recipe bursting with warm spices, chewy dried fruits, and crunchy nuts. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish combines fluffy couscous infused with cinnamon, cumin, and turmeric, mingled with the bright sweetness of dried apricots and raisins, and the toasty crunch of almonds and pistachios. Perfect for on-the-go lunches or picnic-ready sides, this layered jar presentation adds elegance to practicality. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon, this recipe delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite. Vegan-friendly, meal-prep easy, and customizable, it’s a must-try for busy weekdays or stylish picnics.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup hot water or vegetable broth
• 0.25 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 0.25 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 0.25 cup toasted almonds, chopped
• 0.25 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.25 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 2 pieces lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the couscous with ground cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 2

Bring 1 cup of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a kettle or saucepan.

Step 3

Pour the hot liquid over the spiced couscous in the bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plate and let it stand for 5 minutes.

Step 4

While the couscous absorbs the liquid, chop the dried apricots, almonds, and pistachios into small pieces.

Step 5

After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Drizzle with olive oil and gently mix in the dried apricots, raisins, almonds, and pistachios.

Step 6

If using, fold in the fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Step 7

To assemble in a jar, layer the couscous mixture into the jar, gently pressing it down to create even layers. For a visually appealing presentation, alternate layers of plain couscous with portions that include visible fruits and nuts.

Step 8

Seal the jar tightly and serve at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of acidity just before eating.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(592.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	883.6

Total Fat 42.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.4g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1501.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 117.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.0g	0%
Total Sugars 56.7g
Protein 21.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 203.1mg	0%
Iron 5.8mg	0%
Potassium 1438.4mg	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: 41.1%

Protein: 9.0%

Carbs: 49.9%