Couscous

 

We were first introduced to couscous when we lived in Lawrence.  Some friends of ours made it for us and it was so easy and delicious that it quickly became a staple in our house.  And now that I'm eating differently, I realize that it is, in fact, one of the few healthy meals on our list of staples.  This is how we fix it at our house, but as it's extremely versatile, it would be easy to customize to your family's taste.

Step 1: Gather ingredients
Okay, here's what you need:

• Chopped veggies (I used Farmer's Market fresh yellow squash, zucchini, and onion - one of each)
• 1 1/2 c cous cous
• fresh garlic
• shrimp (not pictured)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (not pictured)

Step 2: Cook veggies
In a skillet, heat olive oil and garlic until it becomes fragrant.  Add vegetables.

I removed some of the veggies because, even though they cooked down, it was a lot.  The squash and zucchini were pretty large.  I saved these for later :)

 

Step 3: Cook the couscous

Make the couscous according to package instructions.  It recommends flavoring the water with salt and oil.  I did use a pinch of salt (and I do mean a pinch...I'm not a fan of salt).  While that is cooking, 

Step 4: Add the shrimp

Rinse and de-tail the shrimp (if not already done).  Chop into bite-sized pieces if necessary.  Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until the shrimp become just opaque.

Step 5: Add the couscous

Once the couscous is done, fluff with a fork and add to the skillet.  Cook for a bit longer (5 minutes, maybe?) stirring occasionally.

And viola!  You have a delicious meal that doesn't need any sides.  And if you don't like my veggies, add different ones.  If you don't like shrimp, do chicken or tuna.  If you like a little more flavor, throw in some soy sauce.  (That's what my husband does.)  It is a delicious little dish.  And it's good cold, too!

Make it healthier: 

-Use whole wheat couscous.  I didn't even know they had it until I started writing this post and reading up on it!

-Use raw veggies instead of cooked ones.  If you go this route, I would make it a cold salad-type dish.  It would be great with some scalions, cucumbers, tomatoes (and feta! Though feta's on my no-no list right now, and certainly doesn't add to the healthiness...)