Couscous with Parmesan & Peas

Couscous, which is actually a type of tiny pasta, makes an almost-instant side dish. Happily, the whole-wheat variety is just as fast to prepare as regular couscous. Lemon zest is a delicious accent to nutty Parmesan in this Italian-inspired couscous.

6 servings, 2/3 cup each
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 14 ounces low or no-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup whole-wheat couscous
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation

1. Combine broth, water and oil in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Stir in couscous and remove from heat. Cover and let plump for 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, cook peas on the stovetop or in the microwave according to package directions.
3. Add the peas, dill, lemon zest, salt and pepper to the couscous; mix gently and fluff with a fork. Serve hot, sprinkled with cheese.

Nutrition

Per serving: 208 calories; 4 g fat ( 1 g sat , 2 g mono ); 6 mg cholesterol; 35 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 10 g protein; 7 g fiber; 186 mg sodium; 45 mg potassium.