Saffron Couscous with Fresh Peas and Chives

Brighten up your table with the vibrant flavors of Saffron Couscous with Fresh Peas and Chives, a stunning dish that combines aromatic saffron-infused couscous with sweet, tender peas and a fresh pop of chives. This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 20 minutes, is perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish. The saffron threads add a luxurious golden hue and floral depth, while blanched fresh peas bring bright color and natural sweetness. Finished with a delicate combination of butter, olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper, this dish is both elegant and comforting. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your next gathering, this recipe is a celebration of simple yet sophisticated ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups vegetable broth
• 0.25 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 cup fresh peas (shelled)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Directions

Step 1

In a small pot, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the saffron threads and stir to infuse the broth with flavor. Reduce the heat to low and keep the broth warm.

Step 2

In a heatproof bowl, add the couscous. Pour the saffron-infused broth over the couscous, quickly stir, and cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.

Step 3

Meanwhile, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh peas and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender. Drain the peas and set aside.

Step 4

After 5 minutes, uncover the couscous and fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 5

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the olive oil. Stir in the blanched peas and cook for 1-2 minutes to coat them in the buttery oil mixture.

Step 6

Add the fluffed couscous to the skillet along with the chopped chives, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and heat through for 2 minutes.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a light main meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(687.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	682.0

Total Fat 29.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.3g
Cholesterol 31mg	0%
Sodium 2194.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.2g	0%
Total Sugars 15.9g
Protein 22.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 113.1mg	0%
Iron 5.3mg	0%
Potassium 1127.4mg	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: 38.5%

Protein: 12.8%

Carbs: 48.7%