Creamy Tomato Mushroom Couscous

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Mushroom Couscous, especially when I'm in need of a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare. The balance of flavors between the earthy mushrooms, tangy tomatoes, and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible. Plus, couscous cooks in mere minutes, allowing me to whip up this dish on busy weeknights without any fuss. It's perfect for cozy dinners or when I want something satisfying and hearty that still feels light.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:29:35.167Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such depth in flavor. The sautéed mushrooms enliven the dish, while the creamy tomato sauce envelops each couscous grain perfectly. I particularly enjoy adding a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving to enhance those vibrant flavors.

During my testing, I learned that cooking the couscous in vegetable broth rather than water can elevate the dish significantly. It brings an extra level of richness that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Trust me, it’s a small change that yields delicious results!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and dreamy texture that pleases your palate
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Infuses rich flavors with simple ingredients

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients, such as ripe cherry tomatoes and freshly sliced mushrooms, elevates the flavors of your Creamy Tomato Mushroom Couscous. Fresh produce not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant colors, making the dish visually appealing. For tomatoes, choose ones that are slightly firm and aromatic for optimal freshness. When selecting mushrooms, opt for ones that are firm and unblemished, as this ensures they will hold their texture when sautéed.

If you're short on time, you can substitute canned tomatoes for the cherry tomatoes. Choose high-quality canned varieties, preferably San Marzano, for better flavor. You can also use pre-sliced mushrooms to save on prep time—just ensure they are reserved in airtight packaging to maintain freshness before use.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Getting the consistency of your creamy sauce just right is crucial. When simmering the heavy cream with the sautéed vegetables, stir continuously to prevent it from scorching. You want the cream to reduce slightly, becoming thicker and glossier, about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce appears too thin, ensure that your heat is medium; too high can cause it to separate. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese during this phase.

Fluffing the couscous properly enhances its texture. Once the couscous has rested, use a fork to gently separate the grains. This step is essential to ensure your final dish is light and fluffy rather than gummy. If you find your couscous clumping together, you can add a drizzle of olive oil while fluffing to separate the grains.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tomato Mushroom Couscous keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken upon cooling. Gently heat on the stovetop over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the dish grainy and overcook the sauce.

For an impressive serving presentation, consider plating the couscous in a shallow bowl with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil on top. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for entertaining guests or a cozy dinner night.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your dish:

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed all the liquid.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tomatoes start to soften.

Combine and Creamify

Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and dried oregano. Let this simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Finally, fluff the couscous with a fork and mix it into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the creamy tomato mushroom couscous and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth, try incorporating spinach or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving. You can also easily make this dish vegan by substituting heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe highlights the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Bell peppers or zucchini can be delightful additions, sautéed alongside the garlic. If you prefer a protein-packed version, consider adding cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with a reduced-fat alternative or a plant-based cream. Coconut cream provides a unique twist, lending a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.

Scaling the Recipe

If you need to feed more people, this recipe scales beautifully. For every additional serving, simply increase the couscous by a cup and match it with 1.5 cups of vegetable broth. Keep the proportion of cream and vegetables consistent to maintain the flavor balance. Just ensure your skillet is large enough for efficient cooking, or use multiple pans for even sautéing.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one, you can easily adjust the recipe. Couscous can be prepared in smaller batches, as it cooks in just a few minutes; make sure to keep the ratios consistent for the sauce and the sautéed vegetables to maintain that delicious creamy texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of grains instead of couscous?

Yes, you can substitute couscous with quinoa or orzo for a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables can give it a nice kick!

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The couscous and sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve this with?

This couscous pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or can be served as a delicious side to your favorite protein.