Zucchini Ribbons with Saffron Couscous

Yield

8 servings (serving size: 1/2 cup couscous, 1/4 cup zucchini, and 3/4 teaspoon cilantro) 

 

This easy side combines common flavors of Morocco: saffron-enhanced couscous balanced with zucchini and carrots. Serve it with a tagine to soak up the sauce.

Ingredients

• 4 zucchini (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion (about 1 small)
• 1/2 cup finely diced carrot (about 1 small)
• 1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 1/4 cups uncooked couscous
• 1/2 cup frozen green peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Nutritional Information

• Calories 169
• Caloriesfromfat 20%
• Fat 3.8g
• Satfat 0.6g
• Monofat 2.6g
• Polyfat 0.5g
• Protein 5.9g
• Carbohydrate 28.3g
• Fiber 3.6g
• Cholesterol 0.0mg
• Iron 1mg
• Sodium 414mg
• Calcium 34mg

How to Make It

Step 1
Using a vegetable peeler, shave zucchini into ribbons; set aside.


Step 2
Heat 2 teaspoons oil over medium-high heat in a medium saucepan. Add onion and carrot; sauté 3 minutes. Add broth, 1/2 teaspoon salt, saffron, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; bring to a boil. Stir in couscous and peas. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Keep warm.

Step 3
Heat remaining 4 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add zucchini ribbons, and sauté 1 minute or until tender. Stir in remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Serve over couscous mixture. Sprinkle evenly with cilantro.