Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 red onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love preparing Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous for both its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Combining roasted vegetables with delicate couscous creates a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to make. The aromatic herbs and spices infuse each bite with a refreshing taste that elevates even the most mundane meals. Whether served as a side or a light main course, this dish never fails to impress. It's quickly become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:49:13.039Z

When I first experimented with Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorsome it turned out. I combined zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions with a blend of herbs, letting the oven do the magic. The key is to roast the vegetables until they're caramelized, which truly enhances their sweetness and depth. Paired with fluffy couscous, it becomes the perfect complement to any meal.

I’ve found that using homemade vegetable broth instead of water when cooking couscous offers a significant flavor boost. Additionally, feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables according to the season — this dish is incredibly versatile and can adapt to whatever is on hand, making it a go-to recipe in my home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh herb flavors that brighten your palate
Fabulous texture contrast between roasted veggies and fluffy couscous
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

For this Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous, selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables can significantly enhance the dish's flavor and texture. While zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion are fantastic choices, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant, carrots, or cherry tomatoes. Just aim for a variety of colors and textures, as this not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds layers of flavor that complement the couscous beautifully.

When preparing your vegetables, ensure they are cut into uniform sizes, around 1-inch pieces, to guarantee even cooking. If any of your vegetables are particularly watery, like zucchini, consider salting them lightly before roasting. This technique draws out moisture, ensuring your roasted vegetables achieve a lovely caramelization without becoming mushy.

Perfecting Your Couscous

Couscous is a quick-cooking grain that absorbs flavors readily, making it the ideal base for this dish. When preparing couscous, using vegetable broth instead of water is key to imparting an extra depth of flavor. Just remember to bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the couscous, as this ensures it cooks evenly and becomes fluffy without clumping.

After allowing the couscous to rest for five minutes, use a fork to fluff it gently, separating the grains. This step is crucial; over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture that detracts from the dish's overall appeal. A drizzle of olive oil at this point adds richness and enhances the taste, making the couscous even more enjoyable.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you want to prepare Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous ahead of time, it stores quite well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the roasted veggies and couscous in separate containers to maintain their textures. Just before serving, warm them together in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or olive oil if they seem dry.

This dish is versatile; serve it warm as a side to grilled meats or chill it to create a refreshing salad. Add crumbled feta or a handful of nuts for extra richness and crunch. I often make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week, as it makes for a quick and nutritious lunch option when paired with greens.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Roasted Vegetables

1 medium zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 red onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the vegetable quantities based on your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss diced zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Roast the Veggies

Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Couscous

While the veggies are roasting, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes.

Fluff and Combine

Fluff the couscous with a fork and add olive oil. Once the veggies are done roasting, stir them into the couscous and mix well.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add chickpeas or feta cheese for added protein and flavor. This dish makes great leftovers and can be served cold as a salad the next day!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to tailor this Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous recipe to fit dietary preferences or seasonal availability, many ingredient substitutions can be made. For instance, if you need a gluten-free option, quinoa or bulgur could take the place of couscous seamlessly. Flavor adjustments can also be made with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried herbs, offering a brighter taste profile.

Don’t hesitate to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or butternut squash can provide a hearty touch, though they may require a longer roasting time—up to 40 minutes. Ensure they are diced smaller to maintain balance with the cooking time of quicker vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake in this recipe is overcrowding the baking sheet while roasting the vegetables. When vegetables are too close together, they steam instead of roast, resulting in a lackluster texture. Spread them in a single layer, allowing space between them for even cooking and a nice caramelization on the edges.

Another error to watch for is neglecting to season adequately. Salt enhances flavors, especially in vegetables; be generous with your seasonings before roasting. Also, trust your taste buds throughout the cooking process—feel free to adjust seasonings during final mixing for a dish that truly caters to your palate.

Serving Variations

To add variety to your Herb Roasted Veggie Couscous, consider mixing in legumes like chickpeas or lentils for added protein and substance. This transformation can turn your dish from a delightful side into a robust main course, perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a wholesome meal.

For a Mediterranean flair, incorporate olives and sun-dried tomatoes into the final mix. A splash of lemon juice after cooking can brighten the entire dish, giving it that extra 'wow' factor. Serving this dish with a light side salad can create a colorful and nutritious meal that impresses your family and friends alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you love or have on hand.

→ How long will the leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ What can I serve this with?

This couscous pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tofu, or can be served as a standalone dish.