Looking for a couscous recipe that feels a bit festive? This toasted pearl couscous medley brings together sweet delicata squash, tart cherries, roasted almonds, hearty greens and warming spices for a side dish that feels like a holiday hug. It’s vibrant, nourishing and impressive, making any winter dinner or holiday spread feel extra special.


Toasted Spiced Couscous With Roasted Squash
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Ingredients
- 1 medium delicata squash
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil divided
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 cup shallots minced
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1-3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Pinch ground nutmeg
- 2 Tbsp. fresh rosemary chopped
- 1/3 cup dried tart cherries
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds chopped or slivered
- 3 cups kale or arugula, finely chopped
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
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Wash delicata squash and slice in half lengthwise. Scrape out seeds and discard along with any fibrous flesh.
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Place cut side down on cutting board and slice squash into ½-inch slices to make half moons.
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Place squash into small bowl, add 1 Tbsp. avocado oil and ½ tsp. salt and toss to combine.
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Arrange squash on prepared sheet pan. Bake 15 minutes, flip slices over and continue baking additional 15 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside.
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While squash roasts, in medium-sized saucepan, add oil and shallots, sauté 2-3 minutes until softened. Add couscous, toss with oil and sauté 2 minutes to toast lightly.
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Add vegetable broth, cinnamon stick and nutmeg. Bring to boil, turn heat to simmer, cover and cook 12 minutes.
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Remove lid from saucepan and add rosemary, cherries, ¼ cup of almonds and kale or arugula; toss to combine. Cover saucepan and cook 3-5 minutes until greens are wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve warm on a platter topped with delicata squash slices, remaining chopped nuts and a few rosemary sprigs.
Notes
• Use toasted pinenuts or walnuts instead of almonds, or omit nuts altogether.
• Use minced dried apricots or dried cranberries, instead of dried cherries.
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