Balsamic tomato couscous

Name: Balsamic tomato couscous
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup chicken broth (240g); 1 tsp dried basil (2.10g); 1 cup couscous (170g); 2 tsp garlic (6g); 1 tomato (140g); 3 tsp olive oil (14g); 1.50 tbsp vinegar (24g)

Balsamic Tomato Couscous combines tangy balsamic vinegar and fresh tomatoes with aromatic basil and garlic, creating a quick and nutritious dish. Ideal for lunch or as a side, it's simple to make and packed with flavor.

14 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried basil
1 cup couscous
2 tsp garlic
1 tomato
3 tsp olive oil
1.50 tbsp vinegar

Balsamic Tomato Couscous is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, the freshness of tomatoes, and the aromatic essence of basil and garlic. It's an easy-to-make, nutritious meal perfect for a light lunch or a side dish to complement your main course.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of chicken broth to a boil.

2. Add Basil: Once the broth is boiling, stir in 1 tsp of dried basil. Allow the mixture to simmer for a minute to release the basil's flavor.

3. Cook Couscous: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of couscous. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it sit for around 5 minutes, or until the couscous absorbs all the liquid.

4. Prepare Garlic and Tomato: While the couscous is absorbing the liquid, heat 3 tsp of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tsp of minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

5. Add Tomato: Add the diced tomato to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomato starts to soften.

6. Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat and mix the garlic and tomato mixture into the couscous. Stir in 1.50 tbsp of balsamic vinegar to add a tangy flavor.

7. Finish and Serve: Fluff the couscous with a fork to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve warm and enjoy your Balsamic Tomato Couscous!

Balsamic Tomato Couscous is a simple yet elegant dish that brings a variety of flavors together in effortless harmony. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Enjoy the savory and tangy notes with each forkful, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.

Balsamic tomato couscous FAQ:

What is the ideal cooking time for couscous?

Couscous typically needs to sit covered in hot liquid for about 5 minutes to absorb the broth. After that, it should be fluffing easily with a fork.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly without compromising on flavor.

How do I store leftover Balsamic Tomato Couscous?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

What can I substitute for fresh tomato?

You can use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute for fresh tomato. Adjust the quantity to your taste.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

You can incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomato.

Tips:

- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

- Add a handful of fresh basil or parsley at the end for extra freshness.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

- To enhance the dish, sprinkle some feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese on top before serving.

- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 66kcal
Protein 2.98g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 1.26g
Sugar 1.14g
Fat 3.54g

Balsamic tomato couscous