Mediterranean Shrimp & Pearl Couscous with Harissa-Mint Vinaigrette

Mediterranean Shrimp & Pearl Couscous with Harissa-Mint Vinaigrette is built to be delicious and practical while aligning with healthy eating principles. It fits a Mediterranean, heart‑forward approach: lots of plants, olive oil, lean proteins, and satisfying textures. Serve with a big side of vegetables and a whole‑grain or legume base for extra fiber, and taste as you go—layering herbs and acids can make low‑salt cooking sing. Always follow your clinician’s guidance for personalized targets.

Prep
15m
Cook
15m
Total
30m
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Mediterranean Shrimp & Pearl Couscous with Harissa-Mint Vinaigrette

Ingredients

  • 0.5 cup Pearl Couscous
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth
  • 8 ounces Large Shrimp
  • 1 medium Zucchini
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 0.5 medium Lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Harissa Paste
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted Pine Nuts

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pearl Couscous: In a small saucepan, bring the low-sodium vegetable broth to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and couscous is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: While the couscous cooks, in a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the lemon juice, harissa paste, and chopped fresh mint. Season with a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted (about 1 minute). Transfer the vegetables to a plate.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Season with a pinch of black pepper.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked pearl couscous between two serving bowls. Top with the sautéed vegetables and the cooked shrimp. Drizzle generously with the harissa-mint vinaigrette. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, if using, and serve immediately.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 475
Carbs: 28
Protein: 32
Fat: 26
Sodium: 325
Fiber: 6

Servings: 2 · Author: RecipeRX