Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous

Name: Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous when I'm in the mood for a comforting yet easy meal. The combination of creamy sauce with vibrant spinach and the fluffy couscous creates a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. I've even added some grated parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. This recipe is highly versatile and can serve as a delightful main or a hearty side dish.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:20.274Z

When I first tried this Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous, I was amazed by how simple yet indulgent it felt. The key is to sauté the garlic until it's fragrant but not burnt, allowing it to infuse the creamy sauce beautifully. I remember the first time serving it; my family couldn’t get enough!

The spinach not only adds color and nutrition, but it also balances the creaminess of the dish. A tip that has worked wonders for me is to stir in a splash of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens the flavor and enhances the overall experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor with a creamy twist
Quick preparation time makes it a weeknight winner
Nutritious spinach packs a punch of health benefits

      

Mastering Couscous Cooking

Couscous is a fantastic grain because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. For this recipe, using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor profile, making the couscous more savory. When bringing the broth to a boil, ensure it's bubbling vigorously before adding the couscous, as this helps the grains cook evenly. After letting it stand for five minutes, you should see the couscous puffed up and fluffy. A gentle fluff with a fork helps to separate the grains without them becoming mushy.

If you find yourself in need of a gluten-free option, consider using quinoa in place of couscous. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, keeping in mind that quinoa may require slightly more liquid and a longer cooking time—about 15 minutes or until the grains are translucent and the white germ has spiraled out.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The key to achieving a velvety cream sauce lies in the heavy cream. Make sure to heat it gently in the skillet after sautéing the garlic and spinach, allowing it to blend smoothly without boiling. A subtle simmer will create a glossy sauce that beautifully coats the couscous, enhancing its rich flavors. Stir vigorously to prevent any curdling and ensure the sauce remains creamy as you mix in the parmesan cheese, which adds a delightful umami kick.

For those looking to lighten the recipe, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative. This adjustment not only lowers the calories but also adds a tangy flavor. Just make sure to stir in the yogurt at lower heat to avoid curdling, ensuring it melds smoothly within the sauce.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous can serve as a delightful main course or as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. To elevate the meal, serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors, or sprinkle with additional grated parmesan for a bold touch. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture.

If you have leftovers, this dish refrigerates well for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the creaminess. Freezing is not recommended as the cream can separate and texture can change; however, preparing the couscous and sauce components separately allows for an easy, quick meal in the future.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check if you have all the ingredients before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous:

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Add the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Finally, fold in the couscous and mix well to combine all ingredients.

Serve your delicious dish warm, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. You can also feature cooked chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh spinach not only contributes a vibrant green color but also adds essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. Choose bright, tender leaves for the best flavor. If fresh spinach is unavailable, thawed frozen spinach can serve as a suitable substitute; just ensure to drain excess moisture to prevent a watery dish.

Parmesan cheese brings depth to the flavor, but if you're looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead. It provides a nutty flavor without the calories and can easily blend into the creamy sauce, giving you that satisfying cheesiness.

Variations to Try

To customize this dish further, consider adding protein such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, which can increase the satiety factor, making it suitable for a complete meal. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in other vegetables like roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the dish's texture and taste.

For an herbaceous twist, try adding fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or parsley right before serving. They not only provide a fresh pop of flavor but also add an appealing color contrast to the creamy dish.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the garlic just until fragrant is crucial. Overcooking will transition it from sweet to bitter. Keep your heat at medium and watch carefully—this should only take about 1-2 minutes. It’s that beautiful aroma that signifies it’s ready for the next ingredient.

When combining the couscous with the sauce, gently fold it in instead of vigorously mixing. This technique maintains the fluffiness of the couscous and ensures a well-integrated dish without turning it mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat couscous?

Absolutely! Whole wheat couscous will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it. Just add a bit of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture!