Zesty Mediterranean Shrimp and Couscous Skillet with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup couscous
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 lemon lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup fresh mint, chopped
• to taste salt and pepper

Method

1. 01
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
2. 02
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add diced red bell pepper and zucchini, sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. 03
   Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. 04
   Add couscous to the skillet and stir to coat with the spices and vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. 05
   Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. 06
   Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon zest and juice, and gently toss everything to combine.
7. 07
   Remove from heat and fold in chopped parsley and mint. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. 08
   Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.