Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous

Name: Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 ½ cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired Food

I love whipping up this Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous on busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It's a simple yet delicious dish that combines perfectly roasted vegetables with fluffy couscous, all enhanced by fragrant herbs. Each bite is a delightful experience, showcasing colors and flavors that truly highlight the season's best offerings. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe whenever I want something satisfying without too much fuss.

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:57:36.333Z

When I first tried making Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous, I was amazed at how versatile and easy it was! I experimented with different vegetables, and my go-to combination features bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness, while the herbs elevate the flavor to a whole new level. I can’t get enough of it!

Another trick I discovered is to let the couscous sit, covered, for a few minutes after cooking. This allows it to absorb the flavors of the vegetable broth, making every mouthful a burst of taste. This method always leaves my meals bursting with excitement and is sure to impress anyone who tries it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful dish that's visually appealing
Flavor-packed with fresh herbs and roasted veggies
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When selecting vegetables for this couscous dish, opt for seasonal, vibrant produce. Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions provide both flavor and color, but you can easily adapt this recipe with other vegetables like eggplant or cherry tomatoes. Ensure that the vegetables are fresh and firm, as this will enhance the roasting process, promoting caramelization and depth of flavor.

Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes—around 1-inch pieces—so they roast evenly. This helps avoid some pieces being overdone while others remain undercooked. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cut veggies available at your local market.

Mastering the Couscous

Couscous is a fantastic base for this dish, absorbing the flavors of the vegetable broth beautifully. To ensure you get fluffy, distinct grains, it’s crucial not to over-stir the couscous after adding it to the broth. The golden rule is simply to let it sit covered for about 5 minutes, then fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.

If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider toasting the couscous in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding it to the boiling broth. This adds a delightful nutty aroma and can elevate the overall taste of your dish significantly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious couscous dish:

Ingredients for Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 ½ cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to adjust the vegetable quantities based on what you have available.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous:

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the broth.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the couscous with a fork, then transfer it to a large serving bowl. Stir in the roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

For added flavor, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Carrots and eggplant also work beautifully in this recipe.

Preparation and Serving Tips

This Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous can be prepared ahead of time. Once the vegetables are roasted, allow them to cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them gently in the oven or microwave and combine them with freshly made couscous for a quick meal.

For optimal presentation, you can layer the couscous and roasted vegetables in serving dishes. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows guests to mix the ingredients at their leisure. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors just before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your dietary needs or preferences. For a heartier version, add protein sources like chickpeas or diced chicken before roasting the vegetables. Additionally, if you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute regular couscous with quinoa; it will require a slightly different cooking time—about 15 minutes in simmering broth.

Herbs play a crucial role in this recipe, so experiment with different combinations! Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can provide a unique twist, while adding grated cheese, such as feta or Parmesan, can introduce a rich, creamy element that balances the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and prepare the couscous ahead of time, then combine them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this couscous?

Herb Roasted Vegetable Couscous pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a standalone vegetarian dish.

→ Is it possible to use different grains instead of couscous?

Yes, you can substitute couscous with quinoa or bulgur for a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.