Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Favorites

I love how quick and simple this Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous recipe is! Preparing this dish brings together the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the fresh aroma of basil. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a vibrant side or even a light meal in under 30 minutes. The flavors come alive as the tomatoes caramelize, and the couscous absorbs all that delicious essence. Perfect as a sidekick to grilled meats or as a quick lunch on its own, it never disappoints!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:25:34.638Z

Making Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous has become one of my favorite kitchen rituals. The first time I tried it, I was amazed by how the flavors meld so beautifully together. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while the basil offers a refreshing contrast that elevates the dish. I learned that the key is to let the tomatoes roast until they're slightly caramelized, which adds a depth of flavor that truly makes this dish a winner.

A little tip I picked up along the way is to let the couscous sit covered for about 5 minutes after cooking. This ensures that it's fluffy and soaks up the aromatic juices from the tomatoes perfectly. I often serve this as a base for grilled chicken or fish, or even as a stand-alone dish for light lunches. It's versatile, easy, and absolutely satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, aromatic flavors that awaken the senses
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and light, making it a guilt-free side or main dish

The Importance of Roasting

Roasting the cherry tomatoes is a crucial step in this recipe. It concentrates their natural sugars, resulting in a sweet, caramelized flavor that elevates the overall dish. Aim for a golden edge on the tomatoes as a visual cue for perfect roasting. You can even enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic or red pepper flakes to the tomatoes prior to roasting for an extra kick. Just be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

While roasting, keep an eye on the tomatoes around the 10-minute mark. If they start to get too dark, you can rotate the tray or lower the oven temperature slightly. If you have some balsamic glaze on hand, drizzle it over the tomatoes before roasting to introduce a tangy sweetness that complements fresh basil beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Couscous

Couscous is a versatile grain that cooks rapidly, but it can become mushy if not prepared correctly. To achieve the perfect texture, use a 2:1 water-to-couscous ratio. Bring the water to a full boil before adding the couscous, and make sure to cover it immediately to trap steam. After letting it sit for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork rather than stirring, as this can break the grains and create a gummy texture.

For added flavor, consider infusing the cooking water with a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice or broth. This way, the couscous absorbs extra flavor while cooking, which enhances the overall dish without needing additional seasoning later on.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Roasted Tomato Basil Couscous can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent dish for potlucks or gatherings. If you're looking for a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. Additionally, serving it alongside a light salad can create a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to make it ahead, you might want to keep the roasted tomatoes separate until serving to maintain their texture. Reheating is a breeze; just splash a little water on the couscous before microwaving to prevent dryness.

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 15 minutes or until they begin to caramelize.

Prepare the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the couscous, stir, and remove from heat. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb all the moisture.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the couscous with a fork and add the roasted tomatoes, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar if using. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

Try garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins or even as a bed for a fresh salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of cherry tomatoes, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes; just expect a slight variation in sweetness and texture. Roasting times may vary slightly depending on the size of your tomatoes, so keep an eye on them.

For the basil, if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider using fresh parsley or cilantro. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch—just reduce the amount by about half, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

Potential Troubleshooting

If your couscous turns out overly sticky, it’s likely that it didn't have enough time to steam or you stirred it too fiercely. Next time, ensure you fluff it gently with a fork to keep the grains separate. If you find your roasted tomatoes are not caramelizing, check your oven temperature; a too-low heat can cause them to simply soften instead of roast.

In case the dish feels flat in flavor, serve it with an extra drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightness can add much-needed acidity to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use regular tomatoes, but try to ensure they're ripe and flavorful. You will need to chop them into smaller pieces.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can roast the tomatoes and prepare the couscous ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving for the best flavor.

→ Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for more nutrition and color.

→ What can I substitute for basil?

If you don’t have basil, fresh parsley, or oregano can also work well and add a delightful flavor.