These recipes with couscous put the pearls center stage, soaking up spices, herbs and sauces, for sides and mains full of comforting flavor.
Lately, I’ve noticed a surge in recipes with couscous, both in restaurants and online. And honestly, between its versatility and simple preparation, I’m not surprised. Couscous is technically a pasta, but unlike thick tubes of penne or long, hollow bucatini, it cooks in a few minutes and doesn’t need to be boiled. There are a few different types: traditional, pearl and whole wheat, but all are quick cooking, making couscous one of the best pantry staples when short on time.
Preparing couscous is as simple as pouring hot water or broth over the grain-like bits, covering and letting it sit until it is tender and hydrated. The fluffy pearls can be used as a base for soaking up vinaigrettes in hearty salads or catching savory juices under comforting stew recipes. Couscous is also a great, light side to easy salmon recipes or grilled chicken recipes when you don’t want a heavy meal.
The list also considers dietary preferences. You’ll find vegan, vegetarian and dairy-free options, with many beginner-friendly and approachable recipes. Whether you’re looking for a couscous salad for lunch or spiced kofta meatballs on a bed of seasoned couscous for dinner, there are plenty of ideas here to inspire every cook.
1/29
Summer Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe to show appreciation to all the teachers at my son’s school. The dish had to be as special as the teachers, who always go the extra mile for their students. I think this salad did the trick! It's hearty, earthy, sweet and loaded with nothing but good stuff. —Ramya Ramamurthy, Fremont, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 269 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
2/29
Mediterranean Chickpeas and Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
Add this to your meatless Monday lineup. It's great with feta cheese on top. —Elaine Ober, Brookline, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup chickpea mixture with 2/3 cup couscous: 340 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 677mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein.
3/29
Moroccan Shrimp and Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
When my niece was attending West Point, she was sent to Morocco for five months. I threw her a going-away party complete with Moroccan decorations, costumes and cuisine, including this saucy shrimp dish. Whenever I make it now, I think of her and smile. —Barbara Lento, Houston, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 335 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 626mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
4/29
Couscous Meatball Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Leafy greens, homemade meatballs, pearly couscous and just-right seasonings tossed in the pot and ready to simmer after only 25 minutes of prep make this our go-to dinner on chilly weeknights. —Jonathan Pace, San Francisco, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 202 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 583mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
5/29
Quickpea Curry with Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful curry is a nice change of pace for a busy weeknight. I like to substitute fresh peas for frozen when they're in season. —Beth Fleming, Downers Grove, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 390 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 561mg sodium, 68g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 13g fiber), 13g protein.
6/29
Couscous Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This couscous salad makes the most of summer's bounty. I used to prepare it with a mayonnaise dressing, but lightened it with lemon vinaigrette. It's even better now! —Priscilla Yee, Concord, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 173 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 264mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
7/29
Casablanca Chicken Couscous Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
To give risotto, that favorite Italian comfort food, an update, I used couscous and lively North African-inspired flavors to deliver all the satisfaction of the creamy classic. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 448 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 715mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g protein.
8/29
Kofta Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
For a new take on meatballs, try this quick version of kofta—flavorful Mediterranean meatballs full of spices and herbs. Shape meat mixture around soaked wooden skewers and grill them for a more authentic twist. —Rashanda Cobbins, Aurora, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
4 meatballs with 1/4 cup yogurt and 1/2 tomato: 339 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
9/29
Salmon with Tomato-Goat Cheese Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
Rich with goat cheese and tomato, this recipe works for a weeknight supper or an elegant company dinner—and can be easily adjusted to serve more people. —Toni Roberts, La Canada, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 1 cup couscous mixture: 414 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 506mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
10/29
Colorful Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
We love it when side dishes pop with color, like the bright pepper accents you'll see in this light and fluffy couscous. It's a scrumptious and welcome switch from baked potatoes or rice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 220 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 498mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
11/29
Slow-Simmered Chicken with Raisins, Capers and Basil
From the Recipe Creator:
Capers, golden raisins and fresh basil give this dish a sweetly savory flavor. And what's better than that? The kids LOVE it. —Nadine Mesch, Mount Healthy, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 250 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 494mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
12/29
Sweet Potato and Turkey Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
We always have turkey and sweet potatoes left over after our big Thanksgiving feast. I combine them in this quick, easy and nutritious main dish that satisfies alongside a simple green salad. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 365 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 848mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein.
13/29
Moroccan Stuffed Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Coriander and cumin are zesty updates to the familiar stuffed mushrooms. The addition of couscous makes them very filling and delicious. —Raymonde Bourgeois, Swastika, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 25 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
14/29
Chicken with Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
My sister shared this recipe, and it’s been a hit with me, my husband and our friends ever since. After working all day, I love that this dish is fast to prepare. Plus, it's irresistibly bright and delicious. —Shari Ruffalo, Watertown, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1 cup couscous: 357 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 711mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
15/29
Lamb Tagine with Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
Pomegranate, pear and orange go together so well that I decided to use them to prepare a Middle Eastern-themed tagine with lamb. This tastes delicious served over couscous, polenta or cauliflower mashed with feta cheese. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 lamb shank with 1 cup shallot mixture: 438 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 680mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 5g fiber), 31g protein.
16/29
Jamaican Chicken with Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
“Fantabulous” is a word I reserve for fantastic dishes like this jerk-seasoned chicken. It’s a mouth full of yum. —Joni Hilton, Rocklin, California
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken with 2/3 cup couscous mixture: 374 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
17/29
Grilled Peach Couscous Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll feel inspired at the farmers market with the recipe for this couscous salad in tow. Grilled peaches and limes, plus a subtly sweet dressing, bring pizazz. —Emily King, Fayetteville, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 144 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 150mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch.
18/29
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to sprinkle chicken stew with toasted almonds or cashews and serve with hot couscous. Flavored with cinnamon and a touch of sweetness from the apricots, this pretty dish will stand apart from the rest at potlucks, too! —Angela Buchanan, Longmont, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 279 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 497mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fruit.
19/29
Israeli Couscous & Chicken Sausage Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
Our comfort food is a big plate of sausage with couscous. Add some onion, celery, a little heat and a sprinkle of feta. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 343 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
20/29
Chicken & Vegetable Curry Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
For my busy family, a semi-homemade one-pot meal is the easiest way to get dinner done in a hurry. Use your favorite blend of frozen veggies and serve with toasted pita bread for smiles all around. —Elizabeth Hokanson, Arborg, Manitoba
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 273 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 311mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
21/29
Spiced Pearl Couscous with Pine Nuts
From the Recipe Creator:
This side dish is great for entertaining, as you can prepare the topping ahead of time, and the couscous takes only minutes. Try adding a cup of drained and rinsed garbanzo beans to boost the protein! —Cindy Beberman, Orland Park, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 414 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein.
22/29
Lemon-Roasted Chicken with Olive Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
If you can find preserved lemons, use them instead of the plain lemons for an even more authentic flavor in this North African-inspired recipe. —David Feder, Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
7 ounces cooked chicken with 1/2 cup couscous: 456 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 39g protein.
23/29
Couscous and Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
I combined two recipes to create this side with broccoli and pasta. The splash of lemon adds nice flavor. Instead of toasted almonds, you could also sprinkle servings with grated Parmesan cheese. —Beth Dauenhauer, Pueblo, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 115 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 328mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
24/29
Cran-Orange Couscous Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I often create salads for summer using a variety of healthy, filling grains. This version with tender couscous is amped up by the bright flavors of oranges, cranberries, basil and a touch of fennel. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 403 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 335mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 5g fiber), 10g protein.
25/29
Chicken with Curry Roasted Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken butternut squash curry is very flavorful and full of protein, fiber and phytonutrients. The addition of the apricots adds a mild sweetness to the dish. —Sharon Collison, Newark, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 463 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 420mg sodium, 69g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 14g fiber), 32g protein.
26/29
Couscous & Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
If you have a tiny apartment, zero counter space and only two people to feed, hefty meals are out. This acorn squash with couscous is just the right size. —Jessica Levinson, Nyack, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 521 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 979mg sodium, 77g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 8g fiber), 25g protein.
27/29
Dijon Veggies with Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
Coated in a tangy Dijon sauce, these tasty veggies and fluffy couscous make for a delightful side. —Juliana Dumitru, Fairview Park, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 182 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 388mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
28/29
Greek Garlic Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Lively flavors of the Greek Isles come through in this mouthwatering chicken entree. I created this dish so my husband and I could have a nice dinner after a busy day out and about. —Margee Berry, Trout Lake, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken with 1/4 cup sauce and 3/4 cup couscous: 475 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 683mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 44g protein.
29/29
Lemon-Basil Grilled Shrimp & Couscous
From the Recipe Creator:
The basil and lemon in this dish complement each other so nicely. Using fresh ingredients really makes a big difference. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
8 shrimp with 1/2 cup couscous: 363 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 184mg cholesterol, 497mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
Recipes With Couscous FAQ
What goes well with couscous?
Couscous pairs beautifully with proteins like chicken, lamb or fish, but it’s just as delicious in plant-based meals. Roasted vegetables, tofu, lentils and chickpeas bring out its nutty flavor, while fresh herbs, citrus and dried fruit add sweetness and brightness.
Is couscous a main dish or a side dish?
Couscous can be either a main dish or a side, depending on how it’s prepared or what’s added. Plain steamed couscous can be flavored with herbs and olive oil and served as a side instead of pasta or rice, or used as a filling for couscous-stuffed mushrooms. You can combine it with different vegetables, beans or proteins for a satisfying main course like couscous paella.
What easy couscous recipes are kid-friendly?
Just like pasta, couscous has a very mild taste, so it’s easy to make it kid-friendly with simple preparations that include familiar flavors and textures. Try mixing it with their favorite vegetables and a sprinkle of cheese or spooning tomato sauce over top. Use regular or pearl couscous, depending on which texture is more appealing to your family.
