Apricot and pistachio couscous

Apricot and pistachio couscous combines sweet dried apricots, nutty pistachios, and fresh herbs in a light, citrusy dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect as a side or a light lunch.

08 Dec 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup couscous
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 cup pistachio nuts
1/2 cup dried apricots
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/4 cup coriander leaves
Apricot and pistachio couscous

Apricot and pistachio couscous is a delightful blend of sweet, nutty, and citrus flavors that come together to create a refreshing and versatile dish. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your main course. It's simple to make and packed with nutrients thanks to the couscous, dried apricots, and pistachio nuts.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
- In a medium-sized heatproof bowl, place 1 cup of couscous.
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil and pour it over the couscous.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Prepare the Lemon Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of lemon zest.
- Pour this lemon mixture over the fluffed couscous and toss well to combine.
3. Prepare the Nuts and Dried Fruits:
- Roughly chop 1/2 cup of pistachio nuts.
- Dice 1/2 cup of dried apricots into small pieces.
4. Chop the Herbs:
- Finely chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and 1/4 cup of coriander leaves.
5. Combine All Ingredients:
- Add the chopped pistachios, dried apricots, parsley, and coriander to the couscous.
- Toss everything together until all ingredients are well mixed.
6. Serving:
- Transfer the couscous to a serving dish.
- Garnish with a few extra chopped pistachios, dried apricots, or fresh herbs if desired.
7. Enjoy!
- Serve your Apricot and Pistachio Couscous as a delightful side dish or a light main course.

Apricot and pistachio couscous is a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can easily be integrated into any meal plan. By following these tips and using quality ingredients, you can elevate your couscous dish to a new level of culinary delight. Enjoy this harmonious medley of textures and tastes, and don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own.

Apricot and pistachio couscous FAQ:

What is the cooking time for couscous?

The couscous cooking time is about 5 minutes once you pour boiling water over it. Just cover it and let it sit until the water is absorbed.

How should I store leftover apricot and pistachio couscous?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be served cold or reheated in the microwave.

Can I substitute the pistachios in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with other nuts such as almonds or walnuts for a different flavor and texture, but keep in mind that this may alter the dish's final taste.

What can I use instead of dried apricots?

You can use other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or dates in place of dried apricots, but this will slightly change the sweetness and flavor profile of the dish.

Is there a specific pan size recommended for preparing the couscous?

A medium-sized bowl is sufficient for preparing couscous, as it needs space for the grains to expand. Just ensure it is large enough to hold the water and couscous without spilling.

Tips:

- Use a fork to fluff the couscous once it's cooked to maintain its light and airy texture.

- Toast the pistachio nuts lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to the couscous.

- Chop the dried apricots into small, evenly-sized pieces for a consistent distribution of sweetness.

- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste when mixing in the dressing ingredients for a well-rounded flavor profile.

- For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a handful of pomegranate seeds or a touch of fresh mint.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.26g
Sugar 12g
Fat 12g

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