couscous pilaf with saffron cream cheese

Author of this recipe: Mandi Crocetti

Creamy saffron-infused couscous paired with tangy cream cheese—perfect side or main dish! #couscouspilaf #saffron #creamcheese

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Ingredients

• - Couscous
• - Saffron threads (for flavor)
• - Cream cheese (full-fat for richness)
• - Garlic powder (for enhanced aroma)
• - Onion powder (to boost flavor intensity)
• - Salt (for seasoning)
• - Black pepper (to add a subtle spice)
• - Olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking and sautéing onions)
• - Chicken broth (optional, to make it more flavorful)
• - Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish and extra freshness)
• SEO-friendly formatting:
• - *Key Ingredients*: Couscous, Saffron threads, Cream cheese
• - *Enhancing Flavors*: Garlic powder, Onion powder, Salt, Black pepper
• - *Cooking Aids*: Olive oil or vegetable oil
• - *Broth Option*: Chicken broth (to enrich the dish)
• - *Garnishing*: Fresh parsley

Steps

1. ### How to Make Saffron Cream Cheese Couscous Pilaf: A Recipe Guide
3. Couscous pilaf with saffron cream cheese is a delightful dish that combines the softness of couscous with the richness of cream cheese, infused with the subtle flavor of saffron. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and visually appealing side dish perfect for any meal.
5. #### Ingredients:
6. - 1 cup pearl couscous
7. - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
8. - 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water)
9. - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
10. - 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
11. - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
12. - 1 garlic clove, minced
13. - Salt and pepper to taste
14. - Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
16. #### Instructions:
18. 1. **Prepare the Saffron Mixture:**
19. - Soak saffron threads in 1 tablespoon of hot water until it turns golden. This step is crucial as it infuses the dish with a subtle, fragrant flavor.
21. 2. **Cook the Couscous:**
22. - In a medium saucepan, combine pearl couscous and chicken or vegetable broth.
23. - Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender.
25. 3. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:**
26. - In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
27. - Stir in the saffron mixture to infuse the creamy mixture with its subtle flavor.
29. 4. **Combine Ingredients:**
30. - Once the couscous is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly.
31. - Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the hot couscous until well combined.
33. 5. **Final Touches:**
34. - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for extra zing.
35. - Let the pilaf sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
37. 6. **Garnish (Optional):**
38. - For added color and freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
40. 7. **Serve:**
41. - Serve the saffron cream cheese couscous pilaf warm as a side dish or at room temperature for an elegant appetizer.
43. ### Tips for Success:
44. - Ensure your saffron is properly soaked to release its full flavor.
45. - Let the mixture sit before serving to allow flavors to integrate better.
46. - Experiment with different herbs or spices for added depth of flavor.
48. #### SEO Keywords:
49. - Saffron cream cheese
50. - Couscous pilaf recipe
51. - Fragrant side dish
52. - Rich and creamy couscous
54. By following these detailed steps, you can create a stunning saffron cream cheese couscous pilaf that is sure to impress at any gathering!

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• couscous pilaf with saffron cream cheese