Name: Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese; ⅓ cup kalamata olives, sliced and pitted; 1 tablespoon capers, drained; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1 ½ cups pearl couscous

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 67 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant dish that bursts with sunshine flavors and colorful Mediterranean vibes, you’re going to love this Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe. It brings together tender, garlicky shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta—all perfectly nestled with fluffy pearl couscous that soaks up every bit of the savory broth and citrusy zing. Quick to make yet decadent in taste, this dish is a delightful celebration of fresh ingredients and bold, balanced flavors that can easily brighten up any weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and a white bowl arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, a clear glass bowl is filled with raw shrimp that are pale gray with darker tails. Below it, a white bowl is filled with small, round, yellow lentils with a matte texture. To the right of the shrimp, a clear bowl holds bright red cherry tomatoes that are smooth and shiny. Above the tomatoes, a clear bowl contains dark purple sliced olives with a glossy texture. Next to the olives, a small clear bowl has a small pile of white salt and black pepper. To the left of the shrimp, a small clear bowl holds crumbled white cheese. Above it, another small clear bowl contains green capers. A whole yellow lemon and a glass measuring cup filled with brown broth are placed at the top left. There are three peeled garlic cloves near the top center above the shrimp. A small glass containing yellow olive oil is near the right side. The items are neatly spaced with clear visibility over the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in making this Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe truly shine. From the juicy bursts of cherry tomatoes to the salty feta and the plump shrimp, everything works in harmony to deliver an unforgettably fresh and flavorful bite every time.

Cherry tomatoes (1 pint, halved): Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color that pops on the plate.
Kalamata olives (⅓ cup, sliced, pitted): Brings a salty, slightly tangy depth reminiscent of coastal Mediterranean shores.
Feta cheese (¼ cup, crumbled): Offers a creamy, salty contrast that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Capers (1 tablespoon, drained): Packs a burst of briny intensity to lift the dish’s complexity.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just enough spice to enhance without overpowering.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning, especially the shrimp to bring out their natural sweetness.
Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star protein—succulent and garlicky with a delicate texture.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sear the shrimp and add that signature Mediterranean richness.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the shrimp with aromatic warmth and elevates every mouthful.
Low sodium vegetable broth (2 cups): The flavorful base that cooks the couscous to tender perfection.
Pearl couscous (1 ½ cups): Creates a wonderful texture that’s chewy, fluffy, and ideal for soaking up the broth.
Lemon juice (½ lemon): Adds a bright, zesty finish that brings the whole dish together.
Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Fresh green garnish that adds a pop of color and herbal freshness.

How to Make Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mediterranean Medley

Start by tossing the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, capers, and freshly cracked black pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant mixture will become your tangy, salty base full of bright Mediterranean colors and textures that awaken your taste buds from the very first bite.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp with Garlic

Sprinkle salt evenly over the peeled and deveined shrimp to enhance their natural sweetness. Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 ½ minutes per side until they’re perfectly opaque and pink. In the last minute of cooking, stir in the minced garlic so it softens and infuses the shrimp with aromatic warmth. Remove the shrimp and garlic carefully and layer them on top of the colorful tomato mixture you prepared earlier.

Step 3: Cook the Pearl Couscous

Pour the vegetable broth into the same skillet, turning the heat up to high until it boils. Stir in the pearl couscous, cover the pan, and reduce the heat to medium. Let the couscous simmer gently, absorbing all that flavorful broth for about 10 to 12 minutes until tender but still chewy. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then add it to the bowl with your shrimp and the vibrant Mediterranean medley.

Step 4: Brighten with Lemon and Garnish

Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the entire mixture and tossing it well to combine all those wonderful ingredients. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, herbal note that completes this delicious symphony of Mediterranean flavors.

How to Serve Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe

A black frying pan filled with one layer of shrimp spread evenly across the surface. The shrimp are orange and white, showing a cooked texture with slight browning. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. The shrimp shells are partially removed, revealing the curled bodies inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a few extra olives or crumbled feta on top to enhance texture and richness. A light drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a luscious sheen and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables can turn it into a complete Mediterranean feast. A side of warm pita bread or crusty baguette is also perfect for scooping up every last bit of the juicy couscous and shrimp.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with lemon wedges for a rustic touch, or layer the ingredients in a large glass serving dish for a visually striking centerpiece at your next dinner party. Another fun idea is to stuff the couscous and shrimp mixture inside hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes for a vibrant, handheld version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The couscous tends to soak up more liquid as it rests, so keeping it tightly sealed helps maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes okay but the texture of the shrimp and couscous can change slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze it, separate the shrimp from the couscous mixture and freeze in portions, then combine after reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the couscous and avoid drying out the shrimp. Microwave works too, but be sure to cover and stir occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Try substituting shrimp with scallops, chunks of white fish, or even cooked chicken for a different twist, keeping the cooking time adjustments in mind.

Is pearl couscous the same as regular couscous?

Pearl couscous is larger and chewier than the fine, fluffy regular couscous, making it ideal for this dish’s texture and broth absorption. Regular couscous can work but changes the mouthfeel and cooking times.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and feta, and consider adding chickpeas or grilled vegetables for protein. You might also want to replace the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or add extra olives and capers for punch.

What wine pairs well with Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe?

A crisp, refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the bright lemon and briny flavors beautifully. Rosé can also be an excellent choice for a light and fruity balance.

How spicy is this dish? Can it be adjusted?

This recipe is mild and focuses on fresh, tangy, and savory flavors rather than heat. If you love spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp for a gentle kick.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Couscous with Shrimp Recipe is a true treasure for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors and quick, satisfying meals. It’s perfect for sharing or making ahead to brighten up your week. Give it a try and watch how this lively combination of ingredients wins over your heart—and your appetite—every single time!