Ina Garten Couscous With Pine Nuts Recipe

This Ina Garten Couscous With Pine Nuts Recipe is a light and nutty side dish, which includes pine nuts and fresh scallions. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 10 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Couscous With Pine Nuts Ingredients

• 1½ cups couscous (plain or whole wheat)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1¾ cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 3 scallions, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

How To Make Ina Garten Couscous With Pine Nuts

1. Toast the pine nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
2. Boil the liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable stock, butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a boil.
3. Add the couscous: Stir in the couscous, cover the pot tightly, and remove from the heat. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.
4. Fluff and mix: Fluff the couscous with a fork. Stir in toasted pine nuts, scallions, and parsley. Add lemon juice if using.
5. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature. This dish pairs well with chicken, lamb, or roasted vegetables.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use whole wheat couscous?
  Yes, it works the same and adds more fiber.
• How to toast pine nuts perfectly:
  Stir constantly and don’t walk away—they burn fast.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, it tastes great at room temperature and can be prepped a few hours in advance.
• Can I use quinoa instead?
  Yes, cook it separately and follow the same flavoring steps.
• What’s a good substitute for pine nuts?
  Slivered almonds or chopped pistachios are great options.

What To Serve With Couscous

This flavorful couscous pairs well with:

• Grilled lemon chicken
• Baked salmon
• Lamb chops
• Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
• Falafel or chickpea patties

How To Store Couscous With Pine Nuts

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat:
Microwave gently with a splash of broth or water, or serve at room temperature.

Couscous Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 275
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 390mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and keep the couscous-to-liquid ratio consistent.

Is couscous gluten-free?
No, couscous is made from wheat. Use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice instead.

Why is my couscous clumpy?
Make sure to fluff it gently with a fork after cooking and don’t stir too early.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use vegetable stock and omit the butter or use a vegan substitute.

What herbs go well with couscous?
Parsley is classic, but mint, cilantro, or dill also work great.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Jambalaya Recipe
• Ina Garten Mussels With Basil Breadcrumbs Recipe
• Ina Garten Chicken With Goat Cheese And Basil Recipe