Lemon Couscous with Peas and Carrots

Bright, fresh, and irresistibly simple, Lemon Couscous with Peas and Carrots is a vibrant side dish or light main that’s packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines fluffy couscous infused with zesty lemon, sautéed garlic, and tender peas and carrots for a satisfying dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. The addition of fresh parsley enhances the flavor with a pop of herbal brightness. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or as a colorful addition to your holiday table, this recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables. With its quick prep time and seasonal ingredients, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a wholesome, citrusy twist on classic couscous!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 1 medium carrot
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.

Step 2

Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the water.

Step 3

Stir in the couscous, cover with a lid, and remove the pot from heat. Allow the couscous to sit and absorb the water for about 5 minutes.

Step 4

While the couscous rests, peel and dice the carrot into small cubes and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 5

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

Step 6

Add the diced carrot and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.

Step 7

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 8

Add the frozen peas to the skillet and stir, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the peas are warmed through. Set aside.

Step 9

Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 10

Add the sautéed peas and carrots to the bowl with the couscous.

Step 11

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and an additional pinch of salt and pepper if needed.

Step 12

Chop the fresh parsley and fold it into the couscous for a burst of freshness.

Step 13

Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(680.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	539.4

Total Fat 28.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1537.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 59.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.5g	0%
Total Sugars 7.8g
Protein 11.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 105.2mg	0%
Iron 2.8mg	0%
Potassium 569.6mg	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: 47.7%

Protein: 8.6%

Carbs: 43.7%