Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium tomato, diced; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous because it's both comforting and delightfully fresh. The combination of creamy textures with the pronounced flavors of spinach and ripe tomatoes creates a dish that feels indulgent yet so nourishing. I often whip this up on busy weeknights, thanks to its quick preparation time. It’s satisfying enough to serve as a standalone meal, yet versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or fish. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who might not be as enthusiastic about greens!

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:53:35.259Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was simply looking for a quick way to combine spinach and tomatoes with a grain. What I didn’t expect was how wonderfully creamy the couscous would become, thanks to a simple addition of cream cheese. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Over time, I’ve learned that using fresh ingredients really elevates the flavor. Opting for ripe tomatoes and fresh spinach makes a noticeable difference. And if you want a bit of a kick, adding crushed red pepper flakes can take it to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that envelops the grains flawlessly
Fresh spinach and tomatoes create a burst of flavor
Quick enough for weeknight meals but elegant for special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a memorable Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh spinach, for instance, not only adds a vibrant color but also a nuanced earthiness that complements the creaminess of the sauce. When selecting tomatoes, choose ripe and juicy varieties, like Roma or on-the-vine, to ensure a sweet, slightly tangy kick that balances well with the richness of the cream cheese and Parmesan.

The couscous itself acts as a canvas for this dish, soaking up the flavors from the sauce. I prefer using Israeli or pearl couscous for a more substantial bite. If you have a gluten sensitivity, consider substituting couscous with quinoa, which will still provide a great texture paired with the creamy sauce.

Technique Tips for Perfect Creaminess

Creating a truly creamy sauce is all about the temperature and timing. When you add cream cheese to the skillet with the sautéed spinach and tomatoes, ensure the heat is on low. This prevents the cream cheese from curdling and helps it melt smoothly into the mixture. Stir frequently until the sauce is glossy and evenly mixed, which should take about 2-3 minutes. If you notice it becoming too thick, a splash of vegetable broth can help maintain the desired consistency.

Don’t skip the garlic powder! It plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor profile, infusing the dish with warmth without overwhelming the fresh tastes of the vegetables. If you're a garlic lover, consider adding minced garlic or roasted garlic for a deeper flavor infusion.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep! Store leftover creamy couscous in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, I recommend doing so in a skillet over low heat. Give it a good stir and add a splash of broth or water to help it regain its creamy texture. Cooking it too quickly or over a high heat can lead to a dried-out dish.

If you want to make it ahead of time for a gathering, prepare the couscous and sauce separately. Keep the components refrigerated and combine them just before serving. This will maintain the texture of the couscous and prevent it from becoming too soggy.

Ingredients

For the Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Sauce

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium tomato, diced
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients before cooking for best results.

Directions

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in couscous, olive oil, and salt. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the couscous absorbs the liquid.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate skillet over medium heat, combine the chopped spinach and diced tomato. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts. Lower the heat, then stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder until creamy.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to combine. Season with pepper to taste, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or chickpeas. You can also substitute whole grain couscous for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Couscous is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For a hearty dinner, enjoy it as is, or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. The dish also works beautifully as a side dish, complementing roasted vegetables or fish nicely.

Try garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors further. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also elevate the taste, providing a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for additional variety. If you want a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when preparing the creamy sauce.

For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use nutritional yeast to replace Parmesan, giving you a similar flavor profile while keeping it plant-based.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition!