Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous because it combines vibrant flavors and textures in a single dish. The creamy sauce perfectly envelops the tender couscous, while the fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes add a burst of color and nutrition. Preparing this dish is straightforward, and it comes together in just about 30 minutes. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive meal for friends and family.

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:22:37.230Z

While experimenting with different grains, I stumbled upon this Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen. I was amazed at how the creamy sauce blends seamlessly with the fluffy couscous, creating a heartwarming dish in such a short time. Adding fresh ingredients makes it vibrant and flavorful.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the spinach with garlic before adding it to the couscous. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a lovely aroma that fills the kitchen. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or proteins!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A creamy and comforting dish that's perfect for weeknights
Nutritious spinach and tomatoes add freshness and color
Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup required

Cooking Tips for Perfect Couscous

Couscous is a quick-cooking grain that can turn mushy if not handled properly. To ensure fluffy couscous, using the right ratio of liquid to couscous is essential. Since this recipe calls for 1 cup of couscous, make sure to measure your vegetable broth accurately. Stir the couscous into the boiling broth gently to avoid clumping, then cover it tightly while it steams. Letting it sit for that extra five minutes allows it to absorb all the flavors and moisture without becoming soggy.

If you have leftover couscous from another meal, you can easily use it in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking broth by half, and fold it into the skillet with the spinach and tomatoes just until heated through. This will save time and will still provide a delightful texture alongside the creamy ingredients.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The combination of garlic and spinach in this dish creates an aromatic base that enriches the creaminess of the sauce. To elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will provide a subtle warmth and depth that complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes beautifully. Also, the acidity of the tomatoes can be enhanced with a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra kick.

If you're looking to switch things up, herbs can introduce an exciting twist. Fresh basil or oregano can add a lovely Mediterranean touch. Simply toss in a handful of chopped herbs right before serving to keep their vibrant flavor intact. If you're using dried herbs, add them when the spinach wilts so they can release their essential oils.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous is a great dish to make ahead of time, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the creamy texture intact, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, adding a splash of vegetable broth or heavy cream can help restore the creaminess while preventing it from drying out. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated to your liking.

If you're considering freezing, I recommend omitting the cream and cheese before freezing the dish. Once thawed, you can stir in fresh cream and cheese, allowing for a freshly made flavor and creamy texture. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a convenient meal option for busy weeks.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous:

Cook the couscous

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

Sauté garlic and spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine ingredients

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the cooked couscous and heavy cream. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.

Finish with cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh basil to the dish before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous can be a satisfying main course or a delightful side dish. To serve it as a main, pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp to complement the creamy texture and enhance the meal. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, roasted chickpeas can add protein and a satisfying crunch.

Presentation can elevate the dining experience; consider serving the couscous in a wide, shallow bowl. Top with additional grated Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. For a pop of color, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving.

Lifestyle Adaptations

For a lighter version of this dish, swap out heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. These alternatives will provide creaminess while reducing the calorie content. Keep in mind that coconut cream will add a subtle coconut flavor, perfect for those who enjoy tropical notes in their dishes.

If you're looking to increase the vegetable content, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts to the sautéed mix. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust cooking times so that they cook through without losing their texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat couscous?

Yes, whole wheat couscous will work well and add more fiber to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for more protein.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.