Couscous is a staple grain in many Mediterranean and North African countries. It’s a versatile, quick-cooking ingredient that can be served as a main dish or a side dish. While couscous is delicious on its own, it’s even better when paired with flavorful and complementary side dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 15 delicious side dishes that you can serve with couscous. From roasted vegetables to tangy salads, these dishes will take your couscous game to the next level.
List of 15 Best Side Dishes for Tuna Steaks
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant in the oven until they’re tender and slightly charred is a perfect side dish for couscous. The natural sweetness of the vegetables pairs well with the nutty flavor of couscous. You can also add some garlic, thyme, or other herbs to enhance the flavor.
2. Chickpea Salad
A refreshing salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs tossed with a lemon vinaigrette is a light and flavorful side dish for couscous. The chickpeas provide protein and fiber while the tomatoes and cucumbers add a juicy and crunchy texture.
3. Lemon-Herb Couscous
Infusing couscous with herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish. This dish can be made in minutes and is a great option when you want something light and refreshing.
4. Spiced Lentils
Cook lentils with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric for a hearty and flavorful side dish for couscous. The combination of lentils and spices provides a great source of protein and fiber while adding a depth of flavor to the dish.
5. Tomato and Feta Couscous
Combining couscous with juicy tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese is a classic Mediterranean side dish that’s easy to make and always delicious. The saltiness of the feta cheese complements the sweetness of the tomatoes while the couscous adds texture.
6. Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Grilling slices of halloumi cheese until golden brown and serving it alongside couscous is a satisfying and protein-packed side dish. Halloumi cheese has a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling, and its salty flavor pairs well with the mild flavor of couscous.
7. Harissa Carrots
Roasting carrots with spicy harissa paste and serving them alongside couscous is a simple and delicious way to add some heat to the dish. Harissa paste is a North African chili paste that adds a smoky and spicy flavor to the dish.
8. Moroccan Beet Salad
A salad of roasted beets, oranges, and almonds with a sprinkle of cinnamon and cumin is a colorful and tasty side dish for couscous. The earthiness of the beets pairs well with the sweetness of the oranges and the crunch of the almonds.
9. Hummus
Serving hummus alongside couscous is a great way to add some creaminess and protein to the dish. You can also use hummus as a dip for pita bread. This side dish is perfect for when you want something quick and easy.
10. Cucumber and Yogurt Salad
A simple salad of sliced cucumbers and yogurt seasoned with dill and garlic is a refreshing and cooling side dish for couscous. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the mild flavor of the couscous while the cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
11. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts with a sweet balsamic glaze and serving them alongside couscous is a flavorful and healthy side dish. The caramelized Brussels sprouts add a sweetness that pairs well with the nutty flavor of the couscous, while also providing a good source of vitamins and minerals.
12. Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower
Roasting cauliflower with za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend made with sumac, thyme, sesame seeds, and other herbs, is a flavorful and unique side dish for couscous. The za’atar adds a tangy and earthy flavor to the dish while the cauliflower provides a hearty and nutritious base.
13. Green Bean and Tomato Salad
A salad of blanched green beans and cherry tomatoes tossed with a lemon and olive oil dressing is a simple and refreshing side dish for couscous. The crispness of the green beans and the juiciness of the tomatoes provide a great texture contrast to the couscous.
14. Ratatouille
A traditional French vegetable stew made with eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini is a hearty and flavorful side dish for couscous. The soft and tender vegetables are cooked with aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, making this dish a perfect comfort food option.
15. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilling shrimp skewers and serving them alongside couscous is a protein-packed and flavorful side dish. You can marinate the shrimp in a lemon and herb marinade to add some extra flavor. The couscous serves as a neutral base to showcase the delicious grilled shrimp.
Conclusion
Couscous is a tasty and versatile grain that can be paired with a wide variety of side dishes. In this article, we’ve explored 5 delicious options that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing salad or a hearty lentil dish, there’s a side dish in this article that will suit your taste buds. So the next time you cook couscous, be sure to try one of these side dishes for a truly memorable meal.
