Lemon Parmesan Pearl Couscous

Meet the simple side dish we’ve been loving lately! 

This lemon Parmesan pearl couscous is perfectly balanced with creamy, cheesy, citrusy flavors. Plus, I adore the texture of those tiny, chewy, perfect little pearls! If you’ve never cooked with pearl couscous before, it’s made from semolina (just like traditional Italian pasta) and cooks up quickly in around 10 minutes. I like to toast the couscous first in a bit of garlic butter for extra flavor, then simmer it with chicken stock until tender, then finish it off with a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan and a bright squeeze of lemon juice. So simple and delicious!

As you can imagine, this recipe is endlessly versatile. You can stir in some greens, toss in your favorite protein or roasted veggies, sprinkle some fresh herbs or toasted nuts on top. However you serve it, this quick and easy side dish is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s make a quick batch!

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 large cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 1 1/2 cups (8 ounces) pearl couscous
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 teaspoon each: fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
• 1 cup (1 ounce) freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)