Name: Fennel squid and chilli couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1/3 cup water; 1/4 cup pearl couscous; 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, roughly crushed; 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season; 150g squid hoods, cleaned, sliced; 1 tomato, cut into wedges; 20g baby rocket leaves; 1/2 lemon, zest finely grated, juiced, plus lemon wedges, to serve; 1 Tbsp chopped mint leaves, plus whole leaves, to serve; 1/2 long red chilli, thinly sliced; Chargrilled bread, to serve

We’ve got you covered if you’re after a quick and easy couscous recipe perfectly portioned for one. Introducing fennel squid and chilli couscous – a vibrant and flavourful recipe which combines the delicate sweetness of fennel with the tender bite of squid. Served on a bed of fluffy couscous, this recipe combines fresh, aromatic ingredients for a quick, satisfying dinner.

The best part is, it’ll be on the dinner table within 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice when dining solo.

Ingredients

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup pearl couscous

1/2 tsp fennel seeds, roughly crushed

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season

150g squid hoods, cleaned, sliced

1 tomato, cut into wedges

20g baby rocket leaves

1/2 lemon, zest finely grated, juiced, plus lemon wedges, to serve

1 Tbsp chopped mint leaves, plus whole leaves, to serve

1/2 long red chilli, thinly sliced

Chargrilled bread, to serve

Method

Step 1

In a small saucepan, bring water to the boil on a high heat. Add couscous. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, 12–15 minutes, until couscous is tender. Rinse under cold water and drain.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine fennel and half the oil. Season. Add squid, tossing well.

Step 3

Preheat a chargrill pan on high. Season tomato wedges. Grill 30 seconds each side, until light grill marks appear. Set aside. Chargrill squid for 2 minutes, turning, until squid is white and firm.

Step 4

In a bowl, combine couscous, rocket, remaining oil, zest and juice, mint and chilli. Season and toss gently.

Step 5

Serve couscous mixture topped with tomato and squid. Serve with chargrilled bread and lemon wedges.

couscous with fennel squid — *(Photography: Are Media)*

How much couscous is enough for one person?

As mentioned in this recipe, 1/4 cup of dried couscous is the perfect serving size for one person. In any recipe, you’ll be adding lots of delicious nutrients through vegies and proteins to accompany the couscous and fill you up.

Is couscous healthier than rice?

Couscous has more proteins and higher amounts of vitamins and minerals so it can be considered a healthier option. However, both grains are a good option when incorporated into a balanced, healthy diet.

Sarah Murphy

Sarah began her career in the Australian food media industry 14 years ago. She is now the Food Editor for Better Homes and Gardens, Woman’s Day and Take 5 and loves creating clever and achievable recipes for readers (that will still impress too!)