Ptitim, also known as Israeli couscous, is a versatile and delicious pasta! Supplemented with homemade pesto sauce we create a delightful and refreshing side dish that can be served with a variety of foods. Believe me, you’ll like this Ptitim with Homemade Pesto!
Is Israeli pearl couscous healthy?
Israeli pearl couscous, also known as ptitim, can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. It is made from semolina or wheat flour, which makes it a good source of complex carbohydrates and relatively low-fat food. However, its nutritional value depends on how it is prepared and the ingredients that are added to the dish. Here are some health-related aspects of Israeli pearl couscous:
- Whole grain option: Choose whole wheat Israeli couscous when possible, as it contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to the regular version made from refined wheat flour.
- Low in fat: Israeli couscous is low in fat, which makes it suitable for low-fat diets. However, the final fat content of your dish will depend on the ingredients you add, such as oils, sauces, or cheeses.
- Source of protein: Although it is not a complete protein source, Israeli couscous contains some protein, which can contribute to a balanced diet, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods like legumes, nuts, or dairy.
How to make Ptitim with Homemade Pesto?
Cook the ptitim. Settle the water with some salt to boil. When the water started boiling, add the ptitim. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the ptitim is tender. Then drain it and set it aside.
Prepare the pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to pulse, until a smooth and creamy consistency is reached. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Combine the dish: In a bowl, mix the ptitim with the homemade pesto, making sure to evenly coat the grains. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Decorate with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges and enjoy!
What does pesto ptitim pair well with?
This Ptitim with Homemade Pesto can be served as a satisfying main course or as a side dish. Pesto ptitim pairs well with a variety of ingredients and dishes, making it a versatile option for different meal plans. Here are some suggestions for foods and flavors that complement pesto ptitim:
- Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus can add color, flavor, and nutrients to the dish. You can also mix in fresh vegetables like cucumber, arugula, or baby spinach for a refreshing taste and added crunch.
- Protein: Pesto ptitim goes well with various protein sources, such as grilled or baked salmon, sea bass, shrimp, or tofu. Here is some good pairing recipes:
- Salad: Pesto ptitim can be used as a base for a hearty salad, mixed with fresh greens, chopped vegetables, and your choice of protein.
Ptitim (Israel couscous) with Homemade Pesto
Equipment
- 1 Food processor or blender
Ingredients
Ptitim
- 60 g ptitim
- 1 tsp salt
- water
Pesto
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- For ptitim, settle the water with some salt to boil. When it starts boiling, add the ptitim and cook for 8-10 minutes. Then drain it and set it aside.
- For the pesto, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to pulse, until a smooth and creamy consistency is reached.
- Mix the ptitim with the homemade pesto, making sure to evenly coat the grains. Enjoy!
Ptitim with Homemade Pesto