carrot and spinach recipes with couscous and tomatoes

Lemon

3 min read

·

04-02-2025

1

0

Share

This post explores three exciting variations on a healthy and flavorful couscous bowl featuring carrots, spinach, and juicy tomatoes. These recipes are packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant lunch. We'll cover everything from simple preparation techniques to flavor-boosting tips, ensuring you create a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

Why This Recipe Rocks:

• Nutrient-rich: Carrots provide beta-carotene (converted to vitamin A), spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals (like iron and vitamin K), and tomatoes are a great source of lycopene. Couscous adds a good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Quick and easy: These recipes are designed for busy schedules, requiring minimal prep time and simple cooking methods.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easily customize these recipes to your liking by adding different spices, proteins, or vegetables.
• Delicious and satisfying: The combination of sweet carrots, earthy spinach, and tangy tomatoes creates a balanced and flavorful meal.

Recipe Variation 1: Mediterranean Sunshine Bowl

This version emphasizes bright, Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the couscous: Bring vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, remove from heat, and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Sauté the carrots: While the couscous cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp.
3. Assemble the bowl: Place cooked couscous in a bowl. Top with sautéed carrots, spinach, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.
4. Dress and season: Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.

Recipe Variation 2: Spicy Moroccan Delight

This recipe adds a warm, spicy kick with Moroccan-inspired flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon harissa paste (adjust to your spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Mediterranean Sunshine Bowl recipe.
2. Spice it up: While the carrots sauté, stir in harissa paste and cumin. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Assemble and season: Combine cooked couscous, spiced carrots, spinach, and diced tomatoes in a bowl. Top with cilantro and toasted almonds.
4. Dress and season: Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Recipe Variation 3: Creamy Coconut Curry Bowl

This version offers a rich and creamy twist with coconut milk and curry powder.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ can (4 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Follow step 1 from the Mediterranean Sunshine Bowl recipe.
2. Sauté carrots and spices: Heat olive oil in a pan. Add chopped carrots, curry powder, and ginger. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until carrots are tender.
3. Add coconut milk: Stir in coconut milk and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Assemble and serve: Combine cooked couscous, coconut curry carrots, spinach, and diced tomatoes in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

Tips and Variations:

• Add protein: Boost the protein content with grilled chicken, chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
• Change up the vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
• Adjust the spices: Tailor the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili flakes, harissa paste, or curry powder.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of hummus or pita bread for a more substantial meal.

These versatile couscous bowls are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy carrots, spinach, and tomatoes. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your perfect bowl! Enjoy!