Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Optional: Feta cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I love the freshness and simplicity of this Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous. With ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, this dish captures the essence of summer in every bite. The roasting process brings out the natural sugars in the tomatoes, which creates a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the fluffy couscous. Whether you're serving it as a side or a main dish, I guarantee it's both satisfying and light, making it perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:42:35.881Z

Roasting the tomatoes for this couscous dish transforms them from simple ingredients into bursting flavor bombs. I remember the first time I tried this; the intense sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, combined with fragrant basil, was a revelation. I realized that allowing the tomatoes to caramelize not only enhances their taste but also adds a lovely texture contrast to the light, fluffy couscous.

Every time I make this dish, I love experimenting with the toppings. A sprinkle of feta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate it even further. This versatility ensures it suits any occasion, from a cozy weeknight meal to an inviting picnic spread.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors from roasted tomatoes and basil
Quick preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile as a side dish or a light main course

The Role of Tomatoes

Using ripe cherry tomatoes is essential for this dish as their natural sweetness is enhanced through roasting. The blistering process caramelizes their sugars, resulting in a complex flavor profile that elevates the couscous. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute them with halved plum tomatoes, but be mindful that they may require a few extra minutes in the oven to achieve the desired caramelization.

To check for doneness, look for slightly shriveled skins and a rich, intense color. This ensures that the tomatoes are not only tender but also bursting with flavor, making them the star of your Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous.

Perfecting the Couscous

For the best texture in your couscous, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking it; hence, letting it sit covered after stirring in the broth is key. Allow the steam to work its magic for about five minutes, and then fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. This makes the couscous light and fluffy, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the tomatoes and basil effectively.

If you happen to have an extra minute, consider toasting the couscous in a dry skillet over medium heat until it becomes aromatic and turns a light golden color. This extra step adds a nutty depth of flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This couscous dish is incredibly versatile. If you want to add more protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken strips or roasted chickpeas for a heartier meal. The feta cheese not only adds flavor but also a creamy texture, making it an excellent choice if you enjoy contrast in your dishes.

For a fresh twist, try incorporating lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice just before serving. The citrus notes will brighten the dish and complement the basil exquisitely. Moreover, any leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous:

For the Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Roasted Tomatoes

2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano

To Finish

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Optional: Feta cheese, for serving

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a flavorful, comforting dish!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous:

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss to coat and spread them out evenly. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and caramelized.

Prepare the Couscous

While the tomatoes are roasting, bring vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, remove from heat, stir in couscous, olive oil, and salt. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork afterward.

Combine and Serve

Once the tomatoes are roasted, mix them with the couscous and add the chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm. If desired, top with feta cheese for added flavor.

Enjoy this colorful and delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the tomatoes before roasting. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prepping. You can roast the tomatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just warm them up slightly before mixing them with freshly prepared couscous for an effortless and quick meal after a busy day.

If you're planning to serve this for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe. It scales beautifully and can be easily kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) until ready to serve. This convenience ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.

Dietary Adjustments

For a gluten-free version, you can swap couscous for quinoa or riced cauliflower. Both are excellent substitutes that will still absorb the delicious flavors from the roasted tomatoes and herbs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; quinoa usually takes about 15 minutes to cook, while riced cauliflower cooks in around 5 minutes.

If you're looking to boost the health factor, you can add in steamed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers right before serving. This not only adds beautiful color but also amps up the nutritional content without altering the delicious flavor profile of the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your couscous appears too clumpy after cooking, it likely needs more fluffing. Use a fork to gently break apart any stuck grains. Ensure you are also measuring your liquids accurately, as too little can lead to dry couscous.

If your roasted tomatoes are not as caramelized as desired, that may simply be due to overcrowding them on the baking dish. Make sure they have enough space to roast evenly by using a larger pan or spreading them out in a single layer, which allows for better airflow and browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, but make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even roasting.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

No, couscous is made from wheat. You can substitute with gluten-free grains like quinoa.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas work great as additions.