Low Sodium Traditional Moroccan Couscous

Discover the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this Low Sodium Traditional Moroccan Couscous recipe, a wholesome and heart-healthy take on a classic dish. Featuring fluffy whole wheat couscous combined with sautéed vegetables, tender chickpeas, sweet dried apricots, and a fragrant blend of cinnamon, cumin, and turmeric, this dish delivers robust flavor without relying on salt. Fresh parsley and a zesty burst of lemon juice tie everything together, creating a bright and satisfying meal. Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, this low-sodium recipe is perfect as a nutritious main course or a flavorful side dish. Ideal for anyone craving a healthier twist on a Moroccan favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat couscous
• 1.25 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked and rinsed
• 0.5 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large lemon, zested and juiced

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring 1.25 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the juice of half a lemon. Remove from heat and stir in the whole wheat couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Add the diced carrot and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4

Stir in the chickpeas, chopped dried apricots, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground turmeric, and ground black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine and allow the spices to release their aroma.

Step 5

Add the cooked couscous to the skillet with the vegetables and chickpea mixture. Gently toss everything together to evenly distribute the spices and vegetables.

Step 6

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley, lemon zest, and the remaining lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.

Step 7

Serve the couscous warm as a main dish or as a side. Enjoy this low-sodium, aromatic Moroccan-style meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1326.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1190.7

Total Fat 36.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 142.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 196.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 36.4g	0%
Total Sugars 70.8g
Protein 36.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 448.0mg	0%
Iron 16.5mg	0%
Potassium 3133.9mg	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: 26.0%

Protein: 11.6%

Carbs: 62.4%