This recipe is a quick and easy dinner idea; perfect for watching calories and losing weight and it only takes 15 to 20 minutes to prepare. The prawns are rich in lean protein as well as the mineral zinc for skin, eye and immune health. The garlic and spices add heart healthy properties and the vegetables ensure this dish is full of fiber, minerals and vitamins.
Couscous is Good for Diabetes
Couscous is made from wheat and like other wheat products, the whole-grain variety is healthier. Those with gluten and other wheat allergies should replace the couscous with other grains. Couscous is lighter than rice and a good alternative for an energy rich carbohydrate and protein source. It is also better than rice for individuals with diabetes because it has a lower glycemic index, meaning that it breaks down at a slower rate and does not raise blood sugar levels quickly. Also try whole wheat rice or quinoa with this Moroccan prawn dish.
Ingredients for Herbed Moroccan Prawns
- 1lb or 500g of prawns (deveined and detailed)
- Unsaturated canola or vegetable cooking oil (the original recipe had olive oil, but health studies suggest it is best not to heat olive oil to high temperatures. Olive oil can be drizzled on top later if desired.
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- A half teaspoon of chilli powder (add more according to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder (can also use fresh, grated ginger)
- 1 teaspoon of dried mint leaves (or use finely chopped fresh leaves)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder (or use fresh leaves)
- A pinch each of salt and pepper (its best to use as little salt as possible and add more later if needed)
- Vegetables: One each of courgette (zucchini), red pepper, yellow pepper chopped in medium sized pieces and one bunch fresh spinach leaves (other vegetables can replace these if desired)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Fresh parsley leaves to garnish
How to Make Prawns
Add the garlic to oil in a pan or wok and cook until they become lightly browned. Stir in the cumin, ginger, chili and pepper and then add the prawns and fry for 2 minutes before adding the vegetables. Add the remainder of the spices and fry on high heat, stirring to cook on all sides for about 3 minutes. Just before cooking is complete, add the salt and lemon juice.
Make couscous according to package directions and serve Moroccan Herbed Prawns with Vegetables on top of hot couscous. Serve immediately for a healthy lunch or dinner.
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Noreen Kassem - Noreen Kassem is a hospital doctor based in London, UK. She has extensive experience in clinical research and an undergraduate honors ...
