Fall is the season of cozy flavors and vibrant colors, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful Fall Harvest Couscous Skillet? This hearty dish combines the sweet, nutty taste of butternut squash with the earthy goodness of kale, all enveloped in fluffy couscous and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe not only pleases the palate but also fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of autumn. Ready to elevate your culinary game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be a hit at your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing butternut squash into small, uniform cubes and roughly chopping kale leaves, removing any tough stems.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Add diced butternut squash to the skillet, spreading pieces in a single layer to promote even roasting and caramelization.
- Sprinkle cinnamon, salt, and pepper over the squash, stirring gently to coat each piece with seasoning.
- Sauté squash for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges become golden brown and pieces are tender.
- Pour vegetable broth into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add couscous to the simmering broth, stir briefly, then cover and remove from heat.
- Let couscous steam for 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid and become fluffy.
- Fold chopped kale into the couscous, allowing residual heat to slightly wilt the leaves.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional fresh herbs or toasted nuts for extra texture.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can dice the butternut squash and chop the kale ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts for added flavor and nutrition.
- Perfectly Fluffy Couscous: Ensure that you cover the couscous tightly after adding it to the broth. This allows it to steam properly, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
- Garnish for Presentation: A handful of toasted nuts or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a beautiful touch and a delightful crunch to your dish.
- Make it a Meal: Add some protein such as chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp to make this dish even heartier and satisfying.
- Leftover Magic: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy the flavors all over again!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
