5-Day Couscous Meal Prep Recipe

Introduction

This 5-Day Couscous recipe is a simple and versatile way to enjoy flavorful meals throughout the week. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you can have delicious couscous ready to pair with your favorite vegetables and spices.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
• 1 teaspoon ground spices (like cumin, paprika, or turmeric)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Step 2: Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid.
3. Step 3: Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
4. Step 4: In a separate pan, sauté the mixed vegetables with your chosen spices until tender.
5. Step 5: Combine the sautéed vegetables with the couscous, mixing well to distribute the flavors.
6. Step 6: Allow the couscous to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to brighten the flavors.
• Use different spice blends such as za’atar or ras el hanout for variety.
• Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Serve the couscous warm or cold as a salad.

Storage

Store the prepared couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant couscous for this recipe?

Yes, instant couscous works well and typically cooks even faster. Just follow the package instructions for soaking time.

How can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth or water. For gluten-free options, substitute couscous with quinoa or millet.

5-Day Couscous Meal Prep Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 129 reviews

A simple and versatile 5-day couscous recipe perfect for meal prepping, featuring fluffy couscous combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices to keep your meals flavorful throughout the week.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Meal Prep
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Couscous

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Vegetables

• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a large bowl, combine couscous, salt, and olive oil. Pour boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous, cover tightly, and let it steam for 5-10 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the couscous steams, chop all vegetables including bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh parsley or cilantro.
3. Mix ingredients: Once the couscous is fluffy and cooled slightly, mix in the chopped vegetables and sprinkle the spices (cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper). Drizzle the lemon juice and toss everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
4. Store for Multiple Meals: Divide the couscous mixture into airtight containers suitable for refrigeration. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavorful couscous.
• Customize vegetables based on what you have available or prefer.
• Adjust spices according to your taste preferences; add chili flakes for heat if desired.
• Ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Consume within 5 days to ensure freshness and food safety.

Keywords: couscous, meal prep, Mediterranean, vegetarian, healthy, easy recipe, make ahead, couscous salad