If you love vibrant flavors and wholesome textures, then this Roasted Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Flavorful Couscous Recipe is going to be your new go-to! It brilliantly combines the tender crispness of roasted purple sprouting broccoli with the light, fluffy goodness of couscous, all brightened up by fresh herbs and zesty lemon juice. This dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it a fantastic side or even a light main. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, playing a unique role in building the dish’s wonderful flavor profile and vibrant texture. From the earthy broccoli to the refreshing herbs, here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful recipe.
- 300 grams Purple Sprouting Broccoli: Choose fresh broccoli with firm stems and vibrant florets for the best texture and flavor.
- 200 grams Couscous: Whole wheat couscous works perfectly here for an added nutritional boost and a nutty undertone.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil lends richness and helps roast the broccoli to crispy perfection.
- 3 cloves Garlic: Minced garlic adds an irresistible aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
- 250 ml Vegetable Broth: A low-sodium broth ensures the couscous is cooked with savory flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- 0.5 whole Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings a delightful brightness that makes this dish sing.
- Salt: To season to your taste and enhance all the natural flavors.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked for a hint of warmth and spice.
- Handful Fresh Herbs: Parsley or mint chopped finely for an extra touch of freshness and color.
How to Make Roasted Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Flavorful Couscous Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Broccoli
Start by heating your oven to 200°C (400°F) to get it ready for roasting. Meanwhile, rinse your purple sprouting broccoli under cold water. Trim off the tough ends and chop into manageable pieces that will roast evenly. This prep sets the foundation for that irresistibly crisp texture we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Season the Broccoli
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss the broccoli with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure each floret and stem piece is well-coated because this simple seasoning brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli while roasting.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Lay the broccoli pieces out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roasting them for 20 to 25 minutes will transform their flavor—you’ll get tender insides with those gorgeous crispy edges. Remember to stir halfway through roasting for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Couscous
While the broccoli is roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Then, remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for about five minutes so the couscous can absorb all that delicious broth and fluff up beautifully.
Step 5: Fluff and Flavor the Couscous
Once your couscous has soaked up the broth, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil, adding brightness and a silky finish to your couscous.
Step 6: Combine and Garnish
Transfer the roasted purple sprouting broccoli to the fluffy couscous and toss together in a large serving bowl. Finally, fold in your chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. At this point, give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this dish is all about fresh, balanced flavors!
How to Serve Roasted Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Flavorful Couscous Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or mint aren’t just for looks—they add a lively fragrance and an emerald splash of color that makes the dish pop on the plate. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts can also give an exciting crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
This roasted purple sprouting broccoli with flavorful couscous recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seared fish for a wholesome meal. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside a creamy hummus or roasted chickpeas for added protein and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dish warm or at room temperature, which makes it flexible for picnics or potlucks. You can also spoon it into vibrant lettuce wraps or stuff it inside warm pita breads for a fun handheld twist. Its bold colors make it perfect for sharing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more as they mingle, making your next serving even more delicious. Just be sure to cool it down before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated because the couscous texture can change after freezing. If you must freeze, separate the broccoli and couscous, freeze individually in airtight containers, and expect some texture softening upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the roasted broccoli and couscous gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels dry. Toss everything together once heated and refresh with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to revive those fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular broccoli instead of purple sprouting broccoli?
Absolutely! While purple sprouting broccoli offers a unique color and slightly sweeter taste, regular broccoli will still work wonderfully when roasted with garlic and olive oil.
Is it okay to use instant couscous?
Yes, instant couscous is a convenient option and will cook quickly with hot broth. Just follow the package instructions, and you can still enhance it with lemon juice and olive oil for maximum flavor.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients—making it a perfect fit for vegan and vegetarian diets.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh parsley and mint bring a vibrant, fresh note that complements the dish perfectly. You can also experiment with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
How can I add protein to this dish?
Incorporate chickpeas, toasted nuts, or serve it alongside grilled tofu or chicken to make the meal more filling and balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Flavorful Couscous Recipe truly showcases how a few simple, fresh ingredients can create a dish with stunning color, texture, and taste. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is bound to become a treasured favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it and savor the vibrant flavors for yourself!
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Roasted Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Flavorful Couscous Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and healthy dish featuring roasted purple sprouting broccoli paired with flavorful whole wheat couscous. The broccoli is roasted until tender with olive oil and garlic, then combined with light, lemon-infused couscous and fresh herbs for a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for vegetarian diets.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 300 grams Purple Sprouting Broccoli (Fresh, firm stems and vibrant florets)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for roasting and flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced, for aromatic depth)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (Freshly cracked, to taste)
Couscous
- 200 grams Whole Wheat Couscous
- 250 ml Vegetable Broth (Low-sodium preferred)
- 0.5 whole Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed to brighten the dish)
- Olive Oil (Drizzle for mixing couscous)
Garnish
- Handful Fresh Herbs (Chopped parsley or mint for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to prepare for roasting the broccoli.
- Prepare Broccoli: Rinse the purple sprouting broccoli under cold water, trim the ends, and cut into manageable pieces to ensure even roasting.
- Toss Broccoli: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the broccoli evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer to promote crisp roasting.
- Roast Broccoli: Roast the broccoli in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender with crispy edges.
- Cook Couscous: While broccoli roasts, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan, then remove from heat and add the couscous.
- Steam Couscous: Cover the pot and let couscous sit for 5 minutes so it can absorb the broth fully and become fluffy.
- Fluff Couscous: Fluff the couscous gently with a fork, then stir in fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil for brightness and extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the roasted broccoli into a large serving bowl and mix with the prepared couscous, folding in fresh chopped herbs for an aromatic finish.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm or at room temperature, adjusting seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Notes
- Use extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and health benefits.
- Whole wheat couscous increases fiber and nutritional value.
- Make sure to spread broccoli in a single layer to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can be substituted or combined for varied flavor profiles.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and served cold as a salad alternative.
