Name: Lemon Parmesan Pearl Couscous
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 ½ cups uncooked pearl couscous; 2 ¼ cups vegetable or chicken stock; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Lemon Parmesan Pearl Couscous Recipe

The texture: the tiny “pearls” of couscous have a pleasantly chewy, pasta‑like bite while soaking up flavor beautifully.
The flavor balance: the richness of butter and Parmesan is lifted by fresh lemon juice, giving it brightness and contrast.
Quick and versatile: it comes together in about 25 minutes and can serve as a base to toss in veggies, greens or proteins for a full meal.
Minimal ingredients: with pantry‑staples like butter, garlic, broth, couscous and cheese, it’s accessible and fuss‑free.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons butter
2 large cloves garlic, pressed or minced
1½ cups (8 ounces) pearl couscous
2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or to taste)
1 cup (≈ 1 ounce) freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Melt the butter in a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Add the pearl couscous and sauté for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pearls are lightly toasted and golden.
Pour in the chicken stock (or vegetable broth), add the salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the couscous is al dente. Stir occasionally. If needed, add about ¼ cup more liquid to finish cooking.
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until evenly combined and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or topped with your favorite protein or roasted vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill for a bright, herby finish.
Add toasted pine nuts, almonds, or pistachios for crunch.
Toss in sautéed greens such as spinach or kale, or mix in roasted vegetables.
Add crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
Use lemon zest along with the juice for a more intense citrus flavor.
Swap some butter for olive oil to lighten the dish slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
You can also microwave individual portions, stirring midway and adding a little liquid if needed.
For the freshest taste, add a touch of lemon juice before serving reheated portions.

FAQs

What is pearl couscous?

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is a small round pasta made from semolina. It has a slightly chewy, pasta-like texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Can I use regular couscous instead?

You can, but the texture and cooking time will differ. Regular couscous is much smaller and cooks almost instantly with hot water. Pearl couscous requires toasting and simmering.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

If you can find a gluten-free pearl couscous alternative or small gluten-free pasta, you can use that instead. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

My couscous is still firm after cooking—what should I do?

Add a small amount of extra broth or water (about ¼ cup), cover, and continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes until tender.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes. Make the dish ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently with a bit of added liquid, and finish with fresh lemon juice and Parmesan to restore brightness and creaminess.

Will the lemon juice make the dish too sour?

Not if used in moderation. Start with less and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s best to balance it with the richness of the cheese and butter.

What can I serve with this couscous?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, sautéed shrimp, or a medley of roasted vegetables.

How can I add more texture or flavor?

Try adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, crumbled feta, or a mix of fresh herbs for extra dimension.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not ideal as the texture may change, but it’s possible. Store in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before gently reheating.

Conclusion

Lemon parmesan pearl couscous is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings together creamy, zesty, and savory notes in just 25 minutes. Its versatility makes it ideal for pairing with everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, or as a hearty base for a vegetarian bowl. Easy to prepare, customizable, and always satisfying—this dish is a great addition to any mealtime rotation.