Description
This Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp recipe combines succulent sautéed shrimp with a vibrant mixture of cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, and feta cheese. Pearl couscous is simmered in flavorful vegetable broth, creating a light yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick Mediterranean-inspired meal in just 22 minutes.
Ingredients
Seafood & Vegetables
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ⅓ cup kalamata olives (sliced, pitted)
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Dairy & Condiments
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon capers (drained)
Pantry
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 1 ½ cups pearl couscous
- ½ lemon (juiced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mediterranean Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, drained capers, and black pepper. This creates the fresh, flavorful base of the salad.
- Cook the Shrimp: Sprinkle salt over the peeled and deveined shrimp. Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil, followed by the shrimp. Cook the shrimp until opaque and pink, about 2 ½ minutes per side. Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to infuse the shrimp with a warm garlic flavor. Transfer the cooked shrimp onto the bowl with the tomato mixture.
- Cook the Couscous: In the same skillet, add the low sodium vegetable broth and bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir in the pearl couscous, then cover and reduce heat to medium. Allow the couscous to cook until all the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
- Combine and Serve: Add the fluffed couscous to the bowl containing the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together gently but thoroughly to blend all the flavors. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delightful, bright Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- You can substitute pearl couscous with regular couscous or even quinoa for a different texture.
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked until opaque to avoid any food safety risks.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- This dish is great served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for gatherings and meal prep.
