Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous

Name: Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous as a quick and flavorful side dish. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it combines the earthy taste of garlic, the creaminess of cheese, and the fresh brightness of spinach all in one bowl. In just 20 minutes, I can whip up this comforting dish that pairs beautifully with any protein. Every bite is a delightful experience—I know you will enjoy this creamy and flavorful couscous just as much as I do.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:25:14.466Z

When I first decided to make Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous, I wasn’t sure if it would turn out as delicious as I envisioned. But when I took my first bite, the smooth creaminess combined with the robust garlic flavor was absolutely divine. Experimenting with the amount of garlic really let me personalize the dish to perfectly suit my taste.

One of my favorite tips is to slightly wilt the spinach before mixing it in. This way, the flavors integrate beautifully, and the natural moisture from the spinach blends right into the creaminess of the couscous, making each bite irresistibly rich. Trust me—it's a game changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture with a hint of garlic
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that complements any meal beautifully

      

The Role of the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous plays a significant role in creating a harmonious dish. Couscous acts as the base, absorbing the flavors from the broth and sauce, providing a fluffy texture. The heavy cream adds richness and depth, creating a luxurious mouthfeel, while Parmesan cheese enhances the dish with its nutty, salty notes. Using fresh spinach not only gives a pop of color but also introduces vitamins A and C, making the dish both tasty and nutritious.

When selecting ingredients, fresh garlic is a must; it brings an aromatic quality that dried alternatives simply can't replicate. Additionally, consider using homemade vegetable broth if possible, as it can elevate the overall flavor profile. If you're short on time, store-bought broth can still yield excellent results. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese if Parmesan isn't available, such as Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.

Technique Tips for Success

To ensure the couscous comes out perfectly fluffy, make sure to let it sit for the full five minutes before fluffing. This resting period allows the grains to absorb all the liquid. Stir gently with a fork to prevent clumping and maintain that light texture. Keep the heat low when adding the cream to avoid boiling, which can lead to a separation of the cream and result in a less creamy consistency.

When sautéing the garlic, watch closely to prevent burning; it should only take about one minute at medium heat to release its fragrance. Adding the spinach should be swift—just until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. If left too long, it can lose its vibrant green color and become mushy. Using fresh spinach makes a visual impact, but if you have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for seamless preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a wonderfully creamy dish:

Prepare the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Finish

Fluff the couscous with a fork and then combine it with the sautéed garlic and spinach. Pour in heavy cream and stir in parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through, then season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy your creamy garlic spinach couscous immediately as a savory side!

Pro Tips

For added richness, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld more. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option for a healthier version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous is remarkably easy to prepare in advance. You can make the couscous and sauté the garlic and spinach a day ahead. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply combine them and stir in the heavy cream and cheese over low heat until warmed through. This method not only saves time but can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency, as the couscous may absorb liquid while stored. Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in an airtight container, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Spinach Couscous makes a fantastic side dish but can easily become a main course with the addition of protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can add a delightful contrast to the creamy base. For a burst of freshness, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette; the bright acidity will balance the richness of the couscous beautifully.

For those looking to add a little extra flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This dish is also adaptable; feel free to experiment by adding sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon, or even roasted vegetables to suit your taste preferences. The versatility of this couscous makes it perfect for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried spinach, but it will need to be rehydrated according to package instructions before adding it to the dish.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

No, couscous is made from wheat. If you need a gluten-free option, you can try using quinoa or gluten-free couscous.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement this dish perfectly.