If you're looking for a quick and easy meal option, you might consider couscous. A 0.33 cup serving of medium, precooked, dry couscous contains approximately 200 calories. But couscous isn't just a low-calorie option, it's also rich in nutrients that can benefit your health.

Couscous is packed with fiber, protein, and several essential vitamins and minerals. A 0.33 cup serving contains about 6 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, and 10% of your daily iron needs. It's also low in fat and sodium.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at couscous and explore its health benefits, different cooking methods, and ways to incorporate it into your meal prep routine.

Calories in 0.33 Cup Couscous

A 0.33 cup serving of medium, precooked, dry couscous contains approximately 200 calories. If you're counting calories, couscous might be a good option as it's a low-calorie alternative to other grains like rice or pasta.

Nutrients Present in 0.33 Cup Couscous

Couscous is not just a low-calorie option, but also a nutrient-dense food. A 0.33 cup serving of medium, precooked, dry couscous contains about 6 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, and 10% of your daily iron needs. Moreover, couscous is a good source of selenium, magnesium and vitamin B6.

Health Benefits of Couscous

Couscous can offer several health benefits as it is high in fiber and has a low glycemic index. Eating high-fiber foods like couscous can help maintain healthy digestion and bowel function. The low glycemic index of couscous means that it is digested slowly and does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Ways to Cook Couscous

Couscous is incredibly versatile and can be cooked in several ways. It can be boiled or steamed, and you can add a variety of ingredients to give it a different flavor. Couscous can be served cold as a salad, or hot as a side dish. You can also season it with different spices and herbs to create different flavor profiles.

How to Store Couscous

Couscous is a dry grain that can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place like your pantry. Once opened, it can last for several months if stored properly. If you cook too much couscous, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container.

Couscous as a Gluten-Free Alternative

Couscous is a gluten-free alternative to pasta and other grains like wheat and barley. This makes it an excellent option for people who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, it's important to make sure that you purchase certified gluten-free couscous to avoid any cross-contamination.

Couscous as a Low-Fat Alternative

Not only is couscous low in calories, but it's also low in fat. This makes it a great option for people who are watching their fat intake. You can even use couscous as a substitute for higher-fat ingredients like cheese or cream in your favorite recipes.

Couscous as a Quick Meal

Couscous is a great option for busy weeknights, as it can be cooked quickly and easily. Plus, since it's so versatile, you can add a variety of ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious meal in no time at all.

Couscous Recipes to Try

If you're looking for new ways to incorporate couscous into your diet, there are plenty of delicious recipes to try. You can make a couscous salad with grilled veggies and feta cheese, or a spicy tomato and chickpea couscous dish. Check out some recipes online to find one that suits your taste!

Couscous as a Meal Prep Option

Couscous is a great option for meal prep, as it can be cooked in advance and stored in individual servings. You can even mix it with different protein sources like chicken or tofu to create a balanced and nutritious meal. Make a big batch on Sunday and you'll have a healthy and delicious option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.