This Roasted Vegetable Lemon Tahini Couscous is a bright, hearty dish filled with vibrant roasted vegetables and complemented by a creamy, tangy lemon tahini dressing. It’s perfect as a main or a side, offering a fresh and satisfying flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and versatility. The roasted vegetables provide a rich, caramelized flavor, while the couscous adds a satisfying texture. The lemon tahini dressing brings it all together with a refreshing and creamy touch that enhances each bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a complete meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and comforting.
Ingredients
For Vegetables:
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2 medium zucchini, diced 1/2-inch
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2 medium yellow squash, diced 1/2-inch
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2 bell peppers, diced 1/2-inch
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Dressing:
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1 tablespoon tahini
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Couscous:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup pearl couscous
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1 cup plus 2 tablespoons water
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2 scallions, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, yellow squash, and peppers with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer across the pan and roast for 25-30 minutes until browned at the edges.
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For the dressing, whisk together the lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, tahini, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
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For the couscous, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toast the couscous, stirring constantly, until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Add the water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until the couscous is tender and most of the water has been absorbed. Drain any remaining water, then transfer the couscous to a large bowl.
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Stir the lemon tahini dressing into the couscous.
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Add the roasted vegetables, scallions, and parsley to the couscous, stirring gently to combine. Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add protein: For a more filling dish, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted tofu to the couscous.
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Swap the vegetables: If zucchini, yellow squash, or bell peppers aren’t your favorites, try roasting other vegetables like eggplant, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
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Use different grains: Try using quinoa or farro instead of couscous for a different texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the couscous in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain its moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of couscous?
Yes, you can use other types of couscous such as whole wheat or Israeli couscous (pearl couscous) in this recipe. Adjust cooking times if necessary.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the couscous and roasted vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Toss everything together with the dressing just before serving.
3. Can I freeze roasted vegetable lemon tahini couscous?
While you can freeze the roasted vegetables and couscous separately, the dressing may not hold up well after freezing. It’s best to assemble the dish fresh after thawing.
4. How can I make the dressing vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as tahini and lemon juice provide the creaminess without any dairy.
5. What other vegetables can I use for roasting?
Feel free to experiment with vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower. Just adjust the roasting time based on the size and type of vegetable.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free couscous or substitute with quinoa or rice.
7. How can I make the dressing spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lemon tahini dressing.
8. Can I serve this warm or cold?
This dish is versatile and can be served warm right after cooking or chilled for a refreshing cold salad.
9. Can I add nuts or seeds for crunch?
Yes, roasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds would add a great crunch and extra flavor to the dish.
10. How can I add more flavor to the couscous?
You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the couscous while it cooks to infuse more flavor. Additionally, a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of feta can elevate the taste.
Conclusion
Roasted Vegetable Lemon Tahini Couscous is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines healthy ingredients with vibrant flavors. It’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or as a side for any occasion. With its bright, tangy dressing and hearty texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
