Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Grape LeafPearl Cous Cous Recipe

Pearl Cous Cous Recipe

Inspired by The Grape Leaf
Time30m
Serves4

seasonal vegetables

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Ingredients

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Couscous

Vegetables

Method

Couscous Preparation

  1. 1

    Toast the Couscous

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of pearl couscous and toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the couscous is slightly golden.

  2. 2

    Cook the Couscous

    Add 2 cups of vegetable broth, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper to the toasted couscous. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

  3. 3

    Fluff the Couscous

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Vegetable Preparation

  1. 4

    Chop the Vegetables

    While the couscous is cooking, chop 1 medium zucchini, 1 medium bell pepper, and 0.5 medium red onion into bite-sized pieces. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes.

  2. 5

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

  3. 6

    Add Tomatoes and Basil

    Add the halved cherry tomatoes and 0.25 cup of chopped fresh basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.

Combine and Serve

  1. 7

    Mix Everything Together

    Once the couscous is fluffed, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.

  2. 8

    Serve

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.

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