Honey pistachio couscous

Honey pistachio couscous features a delightful blend of nutty, sweet, and savory flavors. It's packed with nutritious ingredients like pistachios, olives, and zucchini, making it ideal as a side or light main dish.

13 Dec 2025
Cook time 17 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cup couscous
2 tsp olive oil
1 red pepper
1 zucchini
1 onion
1/2 cup pistachio nuts
1 tsp sesame seeds
1/2 cup olives
2 tbsp honey

Honey pistachio couscous is a delightful blend of nutty, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Packed with nutritious ingredients like pistachios, olives, and zucchini, this recipe is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and dice the red pepper.
- Wash and dice the zucchini.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.

2. Cook the Couscous:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water (240 ml) to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.

3. Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Add the diced red pepper and zucchini to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Toast the Nuts and Seeds:
- In a small dry pan, toast the pistachio nuts over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same small pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until lightly browned. Be careful as they can burn quickly. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. Combine All Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, sautéed vegetables, toasted pistachio nuts, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Add 1/2 cup of olives to the mixture.

6. Add the Honey:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the couscous mixture.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly combined.

7. Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (you can add a pinch of salt or pepper to taste).
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or a light main course.

By following this recipe, you'll create a vibrant and flavorful dish that's sure to impress. The combination of honey and pistachios adds a unique twist to traditional couscous, making it a memorable meal. Enjoy your honey pistachio couscous as a satisfying main course or a versatile side dish with your favorite protein.

Honey pistachio couscous FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the couscous?

Cooking the couscous takes about 5 minutes. After bringing water to a boil, add the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit until the water is absorbed.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. If a nut-free option is desired, sunflower seeds are a good alternative.

How do I know when the vegetables are done cooking?

The vegetables are done when they are tender but still slightly crisp. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes of sautéing after adding the zucchini and red pepper.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the couscous and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Combine everything shortly before serving for the best taste and texture.

Tips:

- When toasting the pistachio nuts and sesame seeds, keep an eye on them to avoid burning—this will enhance their flavor and crunch.

- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of your favorite spices such as cumin or paprika when cooking the vegetables.

- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a finely chopped chili or a dash of chili flakes to the mixture.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the couscous to add more depth to the dish.

- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables or add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.79g
Sugar 9g
Fat 16g

Honey pistachio couscous