Name: Parmesan Spinach Couscous Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1/2 medium white onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups dry couscous; 2 1/2 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish); 1 cup spinach

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Introduction

Parmesan Spinach Couscous is a quick and flavorful side dish that combines tender couscous with savory Parmesan and fresh spinach. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a complement to your favorite protein.

A dark grey bowl filled with a dish made of light yellow, small couscous grains mixed with scattered green spinach leaves and small pieces of translucent cooked onion. The dish has a slightly crumbly texture with some red flakes sprinkled on top, adding color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, next to a white bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves on the top left. A checkered white and green cloth is placed on the right side of the couscous bowl, with a triangular piece of light yellow cheese at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 medium white onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups dry couscous
2 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
1 cup spinach

Instructions

Step 1: In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 3: In a separate pot, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the couscous and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Remove from heat immediately and cover the pot.
Step 4: Let the couscous sit covered for 5 minutes until the water has been absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then add it to the saucepan with the cooked onions and garlic. Stir in the salt, Parmesan cheese, and spinach.
Step 6: Cook the mixture over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts slightly.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, toast the couscous lightly in a dry pan before adding boiling water.
Try substituting baby kale or Swiss chard for the spinach for a different green.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for added depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.

How to Serve

A black bowl filled with a fluffy yellow couscous dish mixed with bright green spinach leaves and small pieces of translucent cooked onions, sprinkled lightly with red chili flakes, sits on a white marbled surface. At the top edge, a white bowl is filled with fresh green spinach leaves, and to the left, a piece of light yellow cheese is partially visible. A white and green checkered cloth is placed to the right of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the couscous.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

The recipe as written includes Parmesan cheese, which is not vegan. You can replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to keep it vegan.