Ina Garten Couscous With Toasted Pine Nuts Recipe

This Ina Garten Couscous with Toasted Pine Nuts recipe is fluffy and flavorful, which includes scallions, fresh parsley, and golden pine nuts. It’s a quick and easy side dish, ready in just 20 minutes.

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Ina Garten Couscous With Toasted Pine Nuts Ingredients

For the Couscous Base:

• 1½ cups couscous (preferably plain, not pearled)
• 1½ cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For Flavor and Texture:

• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3–4 scallions, thinly sliced
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)

How To Make Ina Garten Couscous With Toasted Pine Nuts

1. Toast the pine nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium-low. Add pine nuts and toast, stirring often, until golden and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Transfer to a plate to cool immediately.
2. Cook the couscous: In a saucepan, bring chicken stock, butter, and salt to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff and mix: Fluff the couscous with a fork. Stir in scallions, parsley, and lemon zest. Gently fold in the toasted pine nuts.
4. Finish and serve: Drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use vegetable broth?
  Yes, vegetable stock works well for a vegetarian version.
• How to prevent mushy couscous:
  Use equal parts couscous and liquid, and don’t over-soak. Fluff with a fork after resting.
• Can I make this ahead?
  Yes, couscous can be made a few hours in advance. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Is lemon zest necessary?
  It’s optional, but adds a fresh, citrusy brightness.
• What if I don’t have pine nuts?
  Substitute with slivered almonds, chopped walnuts, or skip entirely.

What To Serve With Couscous And Pine Nuts

This dish is a versatile side for:

• Grilled chicken or lamb
• Baked salmon or shrimp
• Roasted vegetables
• Falafel or shawarma
• Stuffed bell peppers

How To Store Couscous With Pine Nuts

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or serve at room temperature.

Freeze (optional):
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and fluff before serving.

Couscous With Toasted Pine Nuts Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving for 6 servings)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Calcium: 20mg
• Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

FAQs

Can I use pearled couscous?
Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time—pearled couscous needs to be simmered, not soaked.

Is this dish served hot or cold?
It’s great warm, at room temperature, or even chilled as a salad.

Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, golden raisins or chopped apricots add sweetness and work well.

How to make it more filling?
Stir in chickpeas or chopped cooked chicken for a heartier meal.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Black Eyed Peas Recipe
• Ina Garten Corn Pudding Recipe
• Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots Recipe