Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous on busy weeknights when I want something tasty yet easy. The sweet and savory roasted tomatoes combined with fresh basil create a delightful dish that's bursting with flavor. Every bite feels refreshing, and I often find myself sneaking seconds! It's a fantastic side dish or even a light main, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for me when time is short.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:37:34.779Z

I remember the first time I tried a dish like this at a small bistro in Italy. The aroma of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil wafted through the air, and I couldn’t resist ordering it. Trying to recreate that magical experience at home pushed me to experiment with different cooking methods. I found that roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while the basil adds an irresistible freshness. This method simply elevates the couscous!

Another key tip is to let the couscous steam briefly after cooking, which ensures it’s perfectly fluffy. Tossing in the roasted tomatoes right at the end transforms a simple grain into a hearty side dish rich in flavor. I often serve it alongside grilled meats, and it’s always a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with juicy roasted tomato flavor
Fresh basil adds a delightful aromatic touch
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Tomato Roasting Essentials

Roasting cherry tomatoes at a high temperature is crucial for achieving that sweet, caramelized flavor. The high heat of 400°F (200°C) not only softens the tomatoes but also enhances their natural sugars, creating a delicious contrast to the nuttiness of the couscous. Keep an eye on them as they roast; they should become slightly wrinkled and start to brown at the edges, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Over-roasting can lead to a burnt taste, so remember to set a timer!

For added complexity, you can experiment with variations of herbs or spices when roasting the tomatoes. A sprinkle of garlic powder or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish with extra depth. Mixing in a teaspoon of honey for the last few minutes can enhance the sweetness, making the tomatoes even more succulent and delicious.

Couscous Crafting Tips

Couscous is a wonderful base for this dish because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Make sure not to stir the couscous after adding it to the boiling broth, as this can lead to clumping. Instead, cover it tightly and let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows the grains to hydrate fully and result in a light and fluffy texture, the way couscous should be. If you find your couscous coming out mushy, try reducing your broth by a few tablespoons next time.

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, consider substituting couscous with quinoa. The cooking method remains the same; just remember that quinoa may require a bit more liquid and a slightly longer cooking time. Keep the water proportions roughly the same, but check for doneness around the 15-minute mark. This will yield a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture that complements the roasted tomatoes well.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

This Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible dish for any occasion. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a filling for a wrap. For an added twist, consider incorporating feta cheese or olives before serving for a Mediterranean flair. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the flavors remarkably, bringing everything together with a glossy finish.

If you're making this meal in advance, you can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the couscous and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. This will help restore some moisture to the dish, ensuring it remains flavorful and enjoyable.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Ensure you have all the ingredients ready to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 15 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Couscous

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

Combine and Season

Fluff the couscous with a fork and add the roasted tomatoes, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar. Gently mix everything together and adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a light main course!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Ingredient Role

Each ingredient in this recipe serves a distinct purpose. The cherry tomatoes offer a burst of juiciness and sweetness when roasted, while the basil contributes a fragrant note that brightens the entire dish. Olive oil not only aids in the roasting process but also adds richness, creating a silky mouthfeel when mixed with the couscous. The balsamic vinegar adds a necessary tang, balancing the sweetness of both the tomatoes and the couscous, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Using fresh basil is key as dried basil lacks the vibrant flavor and aromatic quality needed for this dish. If basil is unavailable, you could substitute with parsley or arugula for a different, yet still refreshing flavor; however, they will alter the overall taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a robust variation, add sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers alongside the tomatoes during roasting. This not only makes the dish heartier but also introduces additional textures and flavors, perfect for veggie lovers.

For those who prefer a protein boost, consider mixing in cooked chickpeas or diced grilled chicken right after combining the couscous and roasted tomatoes. This makes it a more filling meal, ideal for lunch or dinner. You can even toss in some nuts like pine nuts or sliced almonds for a crunchy finish, adding further diversity to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use less as they are more concentrated. About one-third of the amount should suffice.

→ What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous?

It's fantastic with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty salad. It also goes great with roasted vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the couscous and roast the tomatoes in advance. Just combine them when you’re ready to eat.

→ How long will the leftovers last?

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