Inspired by: @doped
Looking for a deliciously simple and nutritious meal that's ready in a flash? This Quick & Healthy Vegan Spinach Garlic Couscous is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights or a light, wholesome lunch, this recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes. It's no wonder abillion users like 'doped' say they "have it at least twice a week" and describe it as "so quick and easy too!"
This vibrant dish proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Packed with the goodness of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic, it’s a plant-based powerhouse that satisfies without weighing you down. At only 230 calories per serving, you can enjoy a wholesome, guilt-free meal any day of the week. Forget bland, complicated recipes – this is the ultimate easy vegan couscous for anyone craving speed and flavor!
Why You'll Love This Easy Vegan Couscous
- Lightning Fast: Ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish, ideal for busy schedules.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with iron-rich spinach and beneficial garlic, contributing to a healthy diet.
- Effortless: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for beginner cooks or those short on time.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples, helping you eat well without breaking the bank.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to your taste and what you have on hand, ensuring it always fits your needs.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 180g couscous
- 300ml water
- 110g chopped baby spinach
- 4 cloves finely chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp parsley
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp brown sugar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Lemon wedge, to serve
Equipment You'll Need
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Quick & Healthy Vegan Spinach Garlic Couscous
Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious and nutritious meal:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and fry gently until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add the chopped baby spinach to the saucepan and continue to fry until it wilts down, which usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the nutmeg.
- Pour in the water, then add the parsley, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add the couscous to the saucepan and stir gently to combine everything.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed all the water.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork before serving. Garnish with a fresh lemon wedge for a burst of zesty flavor.
Variations & Adaptations
This versatile couscous recipe can be easily tweaked to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas, lentils, or diced firm tofu at the end for an even more substantial meal.
- Boost the Veggies: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cherry tomatoes along with the spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: If you love a kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chilli flakes.
- Herb Garden Freshness: Experiment with fresh cilantro, mint, or dill instead of, or in addition to, parsley.
- Gluten-Free Option: While traditional couscous is made from wheat, you can easily find gluten-free couscous varieties made from corn or rice for a certified gluten-free meal.
Tips & Hacks for Perfect Couscous
- Don't Overcook: Couscous cooks very quickly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains fluffy and doesn't get mushy.
- Flavor Boost: For an even richer flavor, substitute some or all of the water with vegetable broth or vegetable stock.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This couscous is great for meal prepping! Cook a larger batch and portion it into containers for quick lunches throughout the week. It can be enjoyed warm or cold.
- Fluffing is Key: After cooking, use a fork to gently fluff the couscous. This separates the grains and gives it a light, airy texture.
Related Articles
Explore more quick, easy, and healthy vegan recipes from abillion:
- Next-Level Creamy Vegan Orzo - Discover another comforting pasta dish.
- Easy One-Pot Vegan Moroccan Chickpea & Vegetable Tagine - For more hearty, flavorful one-pot meals.
- Fresh Pea Pasta with Herbs - Enjoy a light and fresh pasta meal.
- Easy Crispy Vegan Lentils and Rice - Another quick and wholesome grain-based dinner idea.
- Quick & Easy Vegan Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry - Perfect for a speedy, protein-packed stir-fry.
Ready to try this amazing couscous recipe? Share your creations on abillion! We love seeing your delicious plant-based meals and hearing your feedback.
