Get ready to embrace all the warm flavors and fresh produce that the Mediterranean diet is known for—without stretching your pantry or making a mountain of leftovers. This single-serving couscous bowl is perfect for busy weeknights or a light midday meal.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup whole-wheat couscous
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 6–8 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chopped colorful vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes)
- Pinch of dried oregano
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by cooking the couscous. In a small pot, bring about 2/3 cup of water to a boil. Stir in the couscous with a pinch of salt, then remove from heat and cover. Let it sit for 5 minutes while you prepare the shrimp.
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, stirring gently for about 30 seconds. Toss in the shrimp and sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sear for 2 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Next, stir in the chopped vegetables. Let them cook alongside the shrimp for a couple of minutes, just until they begin to soften. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, mixing everything nicely to let the flavors dance together.
Fluff the couscous with a fork and spoon it into a bowl. Top it with the shrimp–vegetable mixture. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
Serve immediately with an extra sprinkling of pepper and a final squeeze of lemon if you like a citrusy zing.
Enjoy!
This zesty couscous bowl is a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients in a perfectly portioned package. It’s ideal for anyone craving a fresh, nourishing meal with minimal fuss—especially those following a healthy, balanced diet. Feel free to swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or chickpeas, and experiment with different vegetables to keep things interesting. You’ll love how the bright flavors, simple seasonings, and heart-healthy fats come together in this delightful single-serving dish.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
