1.5tbsp Olive Oil

450g Couscous

2.5tbsp Fresh Mint

1tsp Salt

500ml Boiling Water

This is so easy and can be made up to 3 hours in advance and kept at room temperature. Couscous is very welcoming to lots of flavours – parsley, coriander, harissa, chopped pistachios, lemon juice, dried fruits and pomegranates can all be mixed in with abandon, but I think the simpler the better, particularly when on a budget, and simply stirring in a generous handful of mint makes for a fresh, intense flavour – just add lots!

  1. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil and salt with the couscous.
  2. Pour over 500ml boiling water, cover and set aside for 20 minutes.
  3. Fluff up with a fork and add the mint and cover and set aside again for 30 minutes at room temperature.

  • words:
  • pictures: David Merewether

You may also like

Butter bean & kale soup

A simple, but flavoursome and nutritious soup that looks and tastes luxurious. The blend of creamy butter beans, kale, and a hint of zesty lemon means it is actually really light and healthy – no cream in sight.

Hearty lentil, chorizo & tomato soup

Spice up a winter mealtime with this chunky, smoky soup. This recipe turns a mix of red lentils, chorizo, and tomatoes into a rich and filling dish.

Seasonal greens & Stilton soup

A healthy, but creamy vegetable soup, combining a seasonal mix of green vegetables with Stilton cheese. Adapt the recipe to suit whatever greens you have to hand. Use up the leftover Christmas Stilton or substitute with any strong blue cheese...