Tomato Basil and Burrata Pearl Couscous

• 1 cup pearl couscous
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 8 oz burrata cheese, torn into pieces
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

Steps

1. 1 In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
2. 2 Stir in pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender.
3. 3 Drain any excess liquid and set couscous aside.
4. 4 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. 5 Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
6. 6 Stir in cooked couscous and basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
7. 7 Remove from heat and gently fold in the burrata.
8. 8 Serve warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal.
• Substitute feta cheese for burrata for a tangy twist.

Substitutions

• Substitute orzo or small pasta shells for pearl couscous.
• Use mozzarella if burrata is unavailable.

Pairings

• A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements this dish beautifully.
• Serve with a light vinaigrette salad on the side.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water or vegetable broth.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, rinse the cooked couscous under cold water before mixing with tomatoes.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the burrata. However, you can freeze the couscous and tomato mixture separately and reheat before adding fresh burrata.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh arugula salad and grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of flavor.

FAQ