Name: Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups couscous; 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock (low sodium); 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro (finely chopped); 2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped); 1/3 cup dried apricots (chopped); 1/3 cup currants or sultanas; 2 tbsp slivered almonds (toasted)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 40 reviews

If you are craving an easy yet extraordinary side dish, this Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant and aromatic combination that effortlessly balances fresh, zesty herbs with the sweet punch of dried apricots and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. Perfectly fluffy couscous acts as the canvas for these wonderful flavors, creating a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your weeknight dinner or impress guests with a colorful accompaniment, this recipe is a joyful celebration of texture and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with small, round, pale yellow grains forming one layer. A clear liquid is being poured into the center, creating bubbles and a slight foam as it touches the grains. The liquid stream is steady and thin, visible in motion from a transparent pitcher above the bowl. The overall scene has soft lighting highlighting the textures of the grains and liquid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing its own unique flair to the table. The couscous provides a light, fluffy base, while the stock infuses it with savory depth. Bright herbs add freshness, dried apricots introduce sweetness, and toasted almonds offer a nutty crunch to keep every bite interesting.

2 cups couscous: The perfect quick-cooking grain that soaks up flavors wonderfully.
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock (low sodium): Adds rich, savory moisture to make your couscous tender and flavorful.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A silky finish that enhances the natural flavors and adds a subtle fruitiness.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Provides a bright, tangy lift that balances the sweetness and herbs.
1/2 tsp salt: Essential seasoning to bring everything together beautifully.
2 tbsp coriander/cilantro, finely chopped: Offers a fresh, slightly citrusy herbal note that livens up the dish.
2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped: Adds a mild, grassy element with vibrant green color.
1/3 cup dried apricots, chopped: Sweet and chewy to contrast the tender grains and herbs.
1/3 cup currants or sultanas: Tiny bursts of sweetness for extra complexity.
2 tbsp slivered almonds, toasted: Toasting brings out a deep nuttiness that adds delightful crunch.

How to Make Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe

Step 1: Bring the Stock to a Boil

Start by heating your chicken or vegetable stock until it’s boiling hot. This can be done quickly on the stove or in the microwave in about 3 to 4 minutes. The hot stock is key because it helps the couscous absorb flavor and softens the grains perfectly.

Step 2: Pour Stock Over Couscous

Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl and pour the boiling stock evenly over it. Give the bowl a gentle shake to level the grains, then cover it tightly with a plate or cling wrap. This resting step allows the couscous to steam and fluff up nicely.

Step 3: Fluff and Season the Couscous

After about 10 minutes, remove the cover and fluff the couscous gently with a fork. This helps separate the grains so they don’t clump together. Now stir in the olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. These simple additions transform the dish, creating a silky, fragrant base full of personality.

Step 4: Stir in Herbs, Fruit, and Nuts

Here’s the magic moment—fold in your chopped coriander, parsley, dried apricots, currants or sultanas, and toasted almonds. You can add just herbs or fruit and nuts, but personally, I love combining all of them to get layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Keep the couscous warm while you prepare the rest of your meal.

How to Serve Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with a light, fluffy couscous salad that has a pale yellow color mixed with small pieces of orange dried apricot, dark raisins, thin almond slices, and chopped green herbs scattered throughout. A wedge of lemon rests on one side inside the bowl. A silver spoon is partially submerged in the couscous on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, try garnishing with extra fresh herbs such as mint or additional cilantro leaves. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a fresh zing that wakes up the flavors beautifully right before serving.

Side Dishes

This couscous is an ideal partner for Moroccan tagines, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. Its bright, fruity notes make it suitable alongside spicy dishes or as a flavorful vegetarian side that adds color and complexity to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the couscous in small individual bowls topped with extra toasted almonds and a wedge of lemon on the side. You can also stuff roasted peppers or tomatoes with the couscous for an elegant, handheld option perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 3 days and tastes delicious cold or warmed up.

Freezing

While couscous is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly once thawed, becoming a bit softer.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the couscous in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water or stock to refresh the moisture. Fluff it again with a fork before serving to restore its light, airy texture.

FAQs

Can I use quinoa or rice instead of couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa or rice can be good alternatives if you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences. Just adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly, as they vary from couscous.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, if you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, this dish is completely vegetarian. It’s also naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free couscous or substitute with quinoa.

Can I prepare this dish vegan?

Definitely! This Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe is vegan as long as you use vegetable stock. All other ingredients are plant-based and packed with flavor.

How can I toast the almonds perfectly?

Toast slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma—usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I swap dried apricots for other dried fruits?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins if you prefer different flavors or what’s on hand. Each variation brings a unique twist to the finished dish.

Final Thoughts

This Flavorful Couscous with Herbs, Dried Apricots, and Toasted Almonds Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite, thanks to its perfect balance of sweet, savory, fresh, and crunchy elements. It’s so simple to make yet strikingly delicious and versatile. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again for effortless, impressive meals.