Cranberry Orange Couscous Recipe
Introduction
This quick and colorful side dish combines the bright citrus flavor of orange juice with the tartness of dried cranberries. Ready in just 15 minutes, cranberry orange couscous adds a cheerful and flavorful touch to any meal, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup orange juice
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring the orange juice to a boil in a saucepan.
- Step 2: Stir in the couscous, dried cranberries, and salt.
- Step 3: Cover the pan and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the liquid.
- Step 4: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with orange zest.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, try tossing in toasted slivered almonds or chopped pistachios before serving.
- Substitute vegetable broth for orange juice if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
- Fresh cranberries lightly sautéed with a bit of honey can replace dried cranberries for a more tart bite.
Storage
Store the couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Before serving, try adding a fresh squeeze of orange juice to brighten the flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular water instead of orange juice?
Yes, but using orange juice adds a unique citrus flavor that complements the cranberries. Water will produce a more neutral taste.
How can I reheat the couscous without drying it out?
Warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of orange juice or water to keep it moist, stirring occasionally.
PrintCranberry Orange Couscous Recipe
Cranberry Orange Couscous is a vibrant and quick side dish that combines the citrusy brightness of orange with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries. Perfectly fluffy couscous is infused with orange juice and enhanced with olive oil and fresh orange zest, making it a refreshing and colorful addition to any holiday table or weeknight meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup orange juice
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Boil Orange Juice: Pour the orange juice into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, ensuring it is hot enough to cook the couscous properly.
- Add Couscous and Cranberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the couscous, dried cranberries, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Let Couscous Absorb Liquid: Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the orange juice completely and soften.
- Fluff and Season: After 5 minutes, remove the cover and fluff the couscous gently with a fork to separate the grains and evenly distribute the cranberries.
- Add Olive Oil and Zest: Drizzle the olive oil over the couscous and sprinkle with the orange zest. Toss gently to incorporate these final flavorful touches.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice if possible.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be served chilled or at room temperature for versatility.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh orange juice before serving enhances the citrus aroma.
- Adjust salt to your personal taste preference.
Keywords: Cranberry Orange Couscous, holiday side dish, quick couscous recipe, citrus couscous, dried cranberries, easy side, healthy side dish
