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Pearl Couscous Skillet with Chickpeas and Feta

Pearl Couscous Skillet with Chickpeas and Feta

  • Author: Anthony
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based Option

Description

This Pearl Couscous Skillet with Chickpeas and Feta (plant-based) is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal combining chewy pearl couscous, protein-rich chickpeas, smoky turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and tangy plant-based feta. Perfect for busy weeknights or vibrant lunches, it delivers bright, balanced flavors with minimal cleanup and easy customization options.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup pearl couscous
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup feta (plant-based), crumbled
  • 3 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for the dish.
  2. Toast the pearl couscous: Add the pearl couscous to the skillet and gently toast it for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. This enhances the couscous’s nutty flavor and improves its texture once cooked.
  3. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in vegetable broth along with a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and a little lemon juice (natural). Stir to combine, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer until the couscous is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  4. Incorporate chickpeas and smoked turkey bacon: Stir in rinsed and drained chickpeas along with cooked chopped smoked turkey bacon. Allow them to warm through for another 3 to 5 minutes. The savory meat alternative adds a smoky dimension here.
  5. Finish with veggies and herbs: Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley and mint. Cook for another minute to let the tomatoes soften slightly but retain their freshness.
  6. Add feta (plant-based) and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and crumble feta (plant-based) evenly over the top. Give a quick stir or serve it layered on top as a creamy, tangy garnish. Serve warm and enjoy every bite.

Notes

  • Don’t skip toasting pearl couscous to develop rich, nutty flavors.
  • Use quality vegetable broth for a more savory dish.
  • Watch the couscous closely to avoid overcooking and maintain chewy texture.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end for the brightest, freshest flavor.
  • Adjust salt after adding feta (plant-based), since it adds saltiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pearl couscous, chickpeas, fennel, plant-based feta, skillet dinner, quick recipe, vegetarian, plant-based, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://homedishideas.com/pearl-couscous-skillet-with-chickpeas-and-feta/