Quick and Easy Mexican Couscous Bowl

 

This is the perfect midweek meal—ridiculously easy, fast, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious, light dish ready in just 10 minutes. Couscous is the secret to a speedy meal since it just needs hot water to fluff up. You can keep it simple with fresh tomato and avocado or add a generous helping of sour cream, cheese, and even crispy tortilla chips for a heartier option. For an extra boost, toss in some shredded pork carnitas!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tbsp diced jalapeño (fresh or tinned)
• 2 scallions (shallots), roughly sliced (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) black beans or red kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) corn kernels, drained
• Handful of fresh coriander/cilantro, chopped

Optional Toppings

• 1 tomato, deseeded and diced
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• Sour cream
• Grated cheese
• Crispy tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: Place salt, cumin, onion powder, and couscous in a large bowl, and quickly toss to combine.
2. Add Water: Pour in the boiling water, cover the bowl, and set aside for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff and Mix: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in the tomato paste to evenly coat the couscous.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the diced jalapeños, scallions (if using), black beans, corn, and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve: Serve warm with your choice of optional toppings like fresh tomato, avocado, sour cream, grated cheese, or crispy tortilla chips.

Recipe Notes:

• Substitutions: Scallions can be replaced with red onion or spring onion, or left out entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor.
• Make it Spicier: Add more jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.