Couscous with Spiced Zucchini

A flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish combining fluffy couscous with zucchini sautéed in aromatic spices, fresh mint, and a bright touch of lemon. Perfect as a vegetarian main course or sophisticated side dish.

4 servings
19 min

Ingredients

  • 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup plain couscous
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 lb zucchini
  • ¾ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup fresh mint
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Bring broth with 1/4 teaspoon salt just to a boil in a small saucepan, then pour over couscous in a bowl and let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside until ready to use.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Meanwhile, heat oil in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté onion with 1/4 teaspoon salt, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 6 minutes. Add garlic and sauté, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add zucchini and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and sauté, stirring occasionally, until just tender, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to moderately low, then stir in coriander, chili powder, cumin, and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, 2 minutes. Gently stir zucchini mixture into couscous and cool to warm or room temperature. Just before serving, stir in mint and lemon juice.

    14 min