Cinnamon-Spiced Lentil Couscous with Sauteed Vegetables

Couscous Veggie Surprise Recipe

Overview

Couscous Veggie Surprise is a delightful one-dish meal that combines the wholesome goodness of lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a hint of cinnamon for a surprisingly delicious twist. Created with simplicity in mind, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to whip up a nutritious lunch or snack in under 60 minutes. It’s vegan, low in cholesterol, and packed with fiber, making it a healthy choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Lentils: 1 cup
• Water: 1 cup
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Carrot: 1 medium, shredded
• Cabbage: 1/4 head, shredded
• Couscous: 1/4 cup
• Butter: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Onions: 1/2 medium, chopped
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Ground cinnamon: 1/2 – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon
• Paprika: to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 224.3
• Fat: 0.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 1393.2mg
• Carbohydrates: 45.4g
• Fiber: 6.1g
• Sugar: 4.1g
• Protein: 9.3g

Instructions

1. Cook Lentils and Vegetables: In a medium-sized pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.

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2. Add Vegetables: After 10 minutes, uncover the pot and add salt, shredded carrots, and cabbage. Cover again and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

3. Prepare Couscous: While the lentils and vegetables simmer, bring the reserved cooking liquid (from lentils and vegetables) to a boil in a separate saucepan. Add couscous, stir once, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Toss with butter if desired.

4. Saute Onions: In a non-stick saucepan sprayed with cooking spray, saute chopped onions over medium heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine and Season: Add the drained lentil and vegetable mixture to the sauteed onions. Stir in soy sauce, ground cinnamon, pepper, and paprika. Saute over low heat until the mixture is fairly dry.

6. Combine and Serve: Mix the cooked couscous with the lentil-vegetable mixture until well combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Secret Ingredient: Don’t hesitate to try the cinnamon—it adds a subtle, warming flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust salt, cinnamon, and other seasonings according to your taste preferences.
• Make it Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan. Ensure all ingredients, especially butter (if using), are vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Couscous Veggie Surprise as a wholesome lunch or a hearty snack. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. It’s also great for meal prep; make a larger batch and divide into portions for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Couscous Veggie Surprise is not just a meal, but a testament to creativity in the kitchen. With its balanced nutritional profile and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises a delicious and wholesome dining experience that’s as satisfying as it is surprising. So go ahead, embrace the unexpected with every flavorful bite!