Herbed Couscous with Dried Fruit Recipe

Herbed couscous with dried fruit is a classic Moroccan-inspired side dish that balances fragrant spices, fresh herbs, and the natural sweetness of dried apricots and golden raisins. Light yet satisfying, it comes together in just 15 minutes and pairs beautifully with tagines, roasted lamb, or grilled chicken. Each serving provides ~409 calories and makes an impressive, flavorful side with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups couscous (uncooked)
• 1.75 cups boiling vegetable broth or water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 tsp cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp cumin
• 0.25 tsp turmeric
• 0.25 tsp ginger, ground
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup golden raisins
• 0.25 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tbsp toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

1. In a large heatproof bowl or pot, combine the couscous with cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ground ginger, and salt. Mix well to distribute spices evenly.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat each grain.
3. Pour the boiling broth over the couscous. Stir once, cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. While the couscous steams, prepare the dried fruit and toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden.
5. After 10 minutes, uncover the couscous and fluff thoroughly with a fork, breaking up any clumps.
6. Add the dried apricots, golden raisins, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss gently.
7. Add the fresh parsley and mint. Fold in gently.
8. Top with toasted pine nuts and taste for seasoning, adding salt if needed.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Room temperature couscous works beautifully as a salad base. Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta for a full grain salad.
• Swap golden raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different flavor profile.
• For a more substantial side, stir in a drained and rinsed can of chickpeas with the dried fruit.
• This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and is excellent for meal prep.
• Use orange juice instead of lemon juice for a sweeter, Moroccan-inspired variation.

Nutrition Breakdown

Calories: 409 kcal

Protein: 10.3g

Fat: 11.7g

Carbs: 67.1g

Fiber: 5.1g

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