This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the table. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish for festive family or friends' gatherings, especially during the holidays. Not only does this dish taste incredible, but it’s also designed for sharing and enjoying with loved ones. Its quick preparation means you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the festivities with your guests!
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 500g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Method:
For the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly. Let it marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve with lemon wedges.
For the Couscous:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable stock to a boil.
- Stir in the couscous, remove from heat, and cover with a lid. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in lemon zest, olive oil, parsley, and salt.
- Plate the grilled shrimp on a bed of lemon couscous and serve immediately. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!
The Recipe for Sharing:
- Shrimp: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and overall energy levels. It’s also rich in selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, and vitamin B12, essential for brain and nervous system health. Shrimp is low in calories and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Garlic: Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. It contains allicin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and support heart health. Plus, garlic enhances the dish’s flavor without the need for added salt or calories.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. It’s also a good source of antioxidants, like vitamin E, that help protect cells from damage and improve skin health.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Lemon juice and zest not only brighten the dish with their zesty flavor but also provide a boost of vitamin C. This vitamin supports immune function, helps collagen production for healthy skin, and aids iron absorption from other foods.
- Couscous: Couscous is a light carbohydrate option that provides energy without being heavy. It’s a good source of selenium, which supports thyroid function and immune health. When cooked in stock, it absorbs extra nutrients and flavor, making it a versatile and nourishing base.
