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; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 ounces cream cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Recipes

I absolutely love creating dishes that combine simplicity with robust flavors, and this Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous is a perfect example. The creamy texture envelopes each grain, while the burst of fresh tomatoes and spinach provides a satisfying and nutritious meal. With only a handful of ingredients, it's a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners or as an impressive side dish for guests. Let me share how this dish came together, and you'll see how easy it can be to create something delightful in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:25:34.956Z

When I first experimented with creamy couscous, I was amazed at how the starch from the cooked grains can create such a luscious sauce. Combining it with fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes truly elevates the dish. I found that adding a bit of cream cheese at the end not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a delightful tang that complements the veggies beautifully.

As I prepared this dish for my family, they couldn't get enough of the vibrant colors and inviting aroma wafting through the kitchen. One tip is to use fresh spinach whenever possible, as it wilts perfectly and pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes. This recipe has quickly become a household favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Freshness from the spinach and tomatoes brightens every bite
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the couscous, which creates a delightful base for the creamy sauce. When cooked correctly, couscous should be light and fluffy, offering a wonderful texture that makes each bite enjoyable. If you're looking to change things up, consider using whole wheat couscous for added fiber and nutrients, or even quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly, with quinoa needing about 15 minutes total.

Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes not only add brightness but also boost the nutritional profile of this dish. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, while cherry tomatoes provide a burst of flavor and acidity that balances the creaminess. When selecting your tomatoes, opt for ones that feel firm and look vibrant in color; they should add a slight sweetness when cooked. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute them with diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

Step-by-Step Techniques

Cooking couscous may seem straightforward, but a common mistake is to overcook it, leading to a mushy texture. When you add the couscous to boiling broth, ensure you cover the pot immediately. This retains steam and allows the couscous to absorb liquid effectively. After five minutes, fluff it with a fork rather than a spoon to prevent it from clumping together, creating a light and airy finish.

Sautéing garlic until it’s just fragrant is crucial; overcooking can lead to bitterness. You'll know it's ready when it releases a pleasing aroma, which typically takes about a minute on medium heat. Adding the tomatoes next will enhance their flavor as they cook down and release juices. Aim for a soft state but not completely disintegrated; they should still hold some shape, giving the dish a lovely variety of textures.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your dish:

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream Cheese

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts. Then, lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, mixing until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.

Combine and Season

Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano. You can also substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to enjoy this Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous throughout the week, it stores beautifully in the fridge. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can last for up to five days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to reinvigorate the creaminess, as the couscous may absorb moisture during storage.

Alternatively, you can prepare the components separately. Cook and store the couscous, sauce, and vegetables in different containers. This way, you can mix and match with other ingredients throughout the week, keeping your meals fresh and varied while still enjoying the flavors of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy couscous pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile side dish. Grilled chicken or shrimp complements the dish beautifully, while also adding a contrasting texture. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside roasted chickpeas or falafel for a satisfying meal that remains meat-free yet fulfilling.

You can also elevate the dish by garnishing with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, which will enhance the freshness of the ingredients. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can contribute an extra layer of flavor, balancing the richness of the cream cheese and adding a pleasing acidity to your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain couscous instead?

Absolutely! Whole grain couscous will add extra fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, just be sure to reheat gently.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Certainly! This dish is great for meal prep and can be portioned out for easy lunches throughout the week.