Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous

Name: Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup couscous; 1 and 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I recently discovered the delightful combination of roasted broccoli and lemon couscous, and it has become a staple in my kitchen. The crispy edges of the broccoli and the bright, zesty flavor of lemon come together to create a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. I love how quick this recipe is, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this recipe always pleases my palate and those of my friends and family!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:19:13.984Z

When I first made roasted broccoli lemon couscous, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such vibrant flavors. The key is to roast the broccoli until it’s slightly crispy while maintaining its tenderness. I’ve found that drizzling the broccoli with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt enhances its natural taste, making every bite worthwhile.

I also like to use fresh lemon juice for a bright burst of flavor. Adding it just before serving gives the couscous a refreshing zing. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning on the plate, making it a perfect choice for entertaining!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        The perfect balance of rich roasted flavor and zesty freshness
Quick to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners
Versatile enough to serve as a side or main course

      

Unlocking Flavor with Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli enhances its natural sweetness and adds a satisfying crispiness, thanks to the Maillard reaction that occurs at high temperatures. As you roast, keep an eye on the florets. You'll notice they turn a vibrant green and develop golden edges—this is the sweet spot! If they start to char too quickly, simply reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to ensure they cook through without burning.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or red pepper flakes to the olive oil before tossing with the broccoli. The garlic will become fragrant and slightly crispy, while the red pepper flakes lend a nice heat that can cut through the richness of the Parmesan cheese.

Perfecting the Couscous Technique

Couscous is incredibly versatile and cooks quickly, making it a wonderful base for this dish. It's essential to let the couscous sit covered after adding it to boiling liquid; this helps it steam and become fluffy. Avoid the temptation to lift the lid too early—let it rest for the full five minutes to fully absorb the flavors and moisture.

If you're looking for a different texture, try swapping out traditional couscous for whole wheat or orzo pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; check the package instructions for the best results. A touch of olive oil added during the fluffing process can help prevent clumping and enhance the overall mouthfeel.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Garnishing is more than just for looks; it adds an extra layer of flavor. Fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also brings an herbaceous freshness that complements the lemon’s acidity beautifully. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or chives, depending on what you have on hand.

Serving this Roasted Broccoli Lemon Couscous with grilled chicken or fish can create a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, consider topping it with chickpeas or a dollop of hummus for added protein. If refrigerating leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to three days—just remember to reheat gently to prevent the couscous from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients for a delightful cooking experience!

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup couscous
1 and 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect roasted broccoli lemon couscous!

Roast the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.

Prepare the Couscous

While the broccoli is roasting, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil in a pot. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, mix the fluffed couscous with the roasted broccoli, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese if using. Toss to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the broccoli during roasting or incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! If broccoli isn’t your favorite, cauliflower or asparagus can be excellent substitutes. Both vegetables roast beautifully and offer a slightly different flavor profile. For a twist, you can also try adding roasted cherry tomatoes—just toss them on the baking sheet with the broccoli for a pop of color and sweetness.

In case you're looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast. The yeast will give a similar umami flavor without the dairy, allowing those with lactose intolerance to enjoy the dish fully.

Make-Ahead Storage Tips

This dish is fantastic for meal prep! You can roast the broccoli and prepare the couscous a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them stored separately to maintain their textures—broccoli can become soggy if stored together with the couscous. When ready to serve, simply combine and heat in a microwave or skillet until warmed through.

If you're cooking for a larger crowd, doubling the recipe is easy! Just ensure your baking sheet is large enough to accommodate all the broccoli in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Keep an eye on the roasting time, as larger batches may require an additional 5 minutes in the oven to achieve that perfect tenderness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your broccoli isn’t crispy enough, it may be overcrowded on the baking sheet. Give the pieces room to breathe—space them out and consider roasting in batches if needed. Alternatively, you can finish the broccoli under a broiler for a minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning.

For the couscous, sogginess is often a sign of excess liquid or overcooking. If this happens, fluff it well and try adding a tablespoon of olive oil to help enhance its texture and flavor. In future attempts, measure the water carefully and ensure it boils before adding the couscous to avoid moisture issues.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese to keep it vegan friendly!

→ How can I make it more filling?

You can add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein and substance.