Couscous with Vegetables: A Taste of North Africa

This vibrant couscous dish is a celebration of fresh vegetables and warm, aromatic spices, bringing the flavors of North Africa to your table. It's a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for a light lunch, a flavorful side dish, or even a quick and healthy dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability - feel free to adjust the vegetables and spices to your liking!

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 cup couscous
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This is the foundation of your flavor!

2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and carrot to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 8 minutes.

3. Simmer in Spices: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice!), vegetable broth, ground cumin, turmeric powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Couscous Time: Stir in the couscous. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it tightly, and let it stand for 5 minutes. This allows the couscous to absorb the liquid and become light and fluffy.

5. Fluff and Finish: After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot as a main course for a light and healthy lunch.
• Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a complete and satisfying meal.
• It makes a fantastic side dish alongside roasted vegetables or a tagine.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
• A dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing tang.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Couscous with Vegetables!