22 couscous recipes

Is couscous healthy?

Couscous is a source of selenium, an antioxidant key to thyroid performance. It also provides plant-based protein – about 7g per 100g – and is a source of fibre. With a higher proportion of vitamins and minerals, it is a healthier alternative to white rice.

Is couscous gluten-free?

Although its grain-like appearance may be deceiving, couscous is not gluten-free as it is made from durum wheat which contains gluten. Coeliacs and those who are gluten-intolerant should avoid eating couscous.

How to cook couscous

Couscous is quick to prepare as it simply has to be hydrated with hot water before being added to your dish of choice. Depending on the brand you use, it may take between five and 10 minutes to be ready – check the pack instructions for timings.

What is the perfect couscous to water ratio?

The best way to hydrate couscous is with a 1:1 couscous to liquid ratio. You can even use stock rather than just plain water as this will add more initial flavour. Simply fluff it up with a fork at the end to achieve the optimum texture.

Easy couscous recipes

Couscous salad

This fresh Middle Eastern-inspired salad features zingy ras el hanout, sumac and mint on a bed of couscous – it’s a filling and flavoursome lunch or veggie side dish.

Jewelled couscous and ras el hanout salmon

Couscous is pimped with herbs, almonds, lemon and honey and topped with spiced salmon in this quick and colourful recipe.

Moroccan meatballs with herb couscous

Juicy lamb meatballs, cooked in a rich tomato sauce and served with buttery coriander and parsley couscous, makes for an easy, satisfying family dinner.

Red peppers with couscous

For a quick and easy supper that promises not to compromise on flavour, give these stuffed peppers with feta and couscous a go.

Spiced couscous with chicken and almonds

Spicy couscous is cooked in Indian spices and apricots and topped with chicken, spring onions and almonds. Serve drizzled with natural yogurt stirred through with parsley – this is a winning midweek dinner that's on the table in 20 minutes.

Lamb steaks with giant couscous

This simple lamb steaks recipe with giant couscous is bursting with fresh, zesty flavours, making the perfect evening meal for two.

Roasted cauli and couscous salad with zhoug and crispy shallots

Check out our vibrant cauliflower and couscous salad recipe with crispy onions and a punchy zhoug dressing. This easy dish is vegan and low in calories, too.

Moroccan couscous stuffed peppers

Peppers are incredible. Their sweet flavour and soft texture when roasted pairs beautifully with Moroccan-style couscous and chickpeas in this classic recipe.

Lemon chicken and kale stew with couscous

This recipe for lemon chicken and kale stew with couscous is a really easy midweek meal. It is low fat and ready in less than 30 minutes.

Harissa chicken and couscous salad

Punchy harissa and a vibrant couscous salad in a zesty preserve lemon dressing livens up this easy chicken dish – ideal for an everyday dinner for two.

Lamb chops with fruity couscous and mint

For a new way with lamb chops, try this speedy recipe with fruity couscous and mint. It's easy to make, but is guaranteed to impress friends and family.

Moroccan wings with herb couscous

This recipe for Moroccan wings with herb-flavoured couscous comes packed with mint, fragrant coriander, sweet maple and fiery harissa and is sure to liven up any day.

Chicken, giant couscous and harissa broth

Giant couscous adds a springy texture to this wholesome broth, with chicken, spring greens and a kick of harissa.

Moroccan couscous stew

This Moroccan-style supper for four of spiced merguez couscous not only tastes delicious, but costs under £3 per person.

Giant couscous with spicy fish broth

Spice up your life with this quick and easy couscous recipe with tomato and fish broth. Harissa gives the dish a wonderfully smoky edge.

Courgette, chicken and pistachio couscous

Couscous salad with chicken, courgette and an orange and harissa dressing makes a quick meal for any day of the week.

Sicilian-style fish stew

Fish is gently simmered in a tomato and couscous sauce and topped with zesty gremolata for a healthy and filling meal.

Chicken and vegetable couscous

Packed with plenty of nutritious veg, this hearty French couscous dish will warm you up on a chilly day.

Chargrilled baby aubergines and giant couscous

Check out this easy veggie meze with giant couscous, a simple yet incredibly moreish recipe that's ready in under an hour.

Spiced vegetable couscous

Couscous is joined by peppers, carrots and chickpeas here for an easy supper. Any leftovers will be great for lunch the next day.

Giant couscous salad with hot smoked fish

This hearty and punchy smoked fish salad, featuring giant couscous, is easy and quick to put together. Bursting with vibrant flavours and textures, it’s perfect for entertaining.

Prawn and harissa stew with couscous

Smoky harissa adds an imaginative spin on this otherwise quick and simple midweek supper.