Dinner

Couscous with Dried Apricots, Currants, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Name: Couscous with Dried Apricots, Currants, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups couscous; 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock, low sodium; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp salt; 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

Bylilan Sage February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

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Introduction

Couscous is a quick and versatile grain dish that’s perfect as a side or base for many meals. Light and fluffy, this recipe combines vibrant herbs and sweet dried fruits for a flavorful twist.

A clear glass bowl full of couscous mixed with small pieces of orange-colored dried apricot, dark small raisins, chopped green herbs, and light slivered almonds. The couscous grains are pale yellow and fluffy, filling most of the bowl in an even layer. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl on the right side, partially buried in the couscous mixture. A wedge of lemon sits on the left edge of the bowl, adding a bright yellow touch. The background is a white marbled surface, making the colors in the bowl stand out clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups couscous
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock, low sodium
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
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

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the chicken or vegetable stock until boiling. You can do this on the stove or microwave it on high for 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 2: Pour the hot stock over the couscous placed in a heatproof bowl. Gently shake the bowl to level the couscous, then cover it with a plate or cling wrap.
Step 3: Let the couscous sit for 10 minutes to absorb the stock. Afterward, fluff it up with a fork to separate the grains.
Step 4: Stir in the olive oil, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Fold in the chopped herbs, dried apricots, currants or sultanas, and toasted almonds. Use all the additions for a full burst of flavor.
Step 6: Keep the couscous warm until ready to serve. It pairs wonderfully with tagine or other Middle Eastern dishes.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and add extra dried fruit or toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
Try substituting lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cumin for a warm, spiced note.
Use vegetable stock to keep this dish vegetarian or vegan.

Storage

Store leftover couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to loosen the grains.

How to Serve

A clear glass bowl filled with a fluffy light yellow couscous salad mixed with small dark raisins, bright orange small apricot pieces, and slivered light brown almonds. There are small bits of green herbs scattered throughout the couscous. A metal spoon is partly buried in the salad on the right side, and a lemon wedge is placed on the left inner edge of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare couscous in advance?

Yes, couscous is great for make-ahead meals. Just keep it refrigerated and reheat before serving. Adding the herbs, fruit, and nuts fresh after reheating helps maintain their texture and flavor.

What can I serve couscous with?

Couscous pairs well with a variety of dishes including tagines, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or stews. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile base for many cuisines.