Dinner

Mexican Couscous Express Recipe

Name: Mexican Couscous Express Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 cup couscous; 1 cup boiling water; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1 tbsp diced jalapeño (fresh preferred, tinned also okay); 2 scallions (shallots), roughly sliced (optional); 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) black beans (or red kidney beans), drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) corn kernels, drained; Handful of coriander/cilantro, chopped; 1 tomato, deseeded and diced; 1/2 avocado, diced; Sour cream (optional); Grated cheese (optional)

ByHarry Bern February 15, 2026February 15, 2026

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Introduction

This Mexican Couscous Express is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining vibrant spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty beans, it offers a nutritious and satisfying meal that comes together in minutes.

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad resting on a white cloth with a red stripe, placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main visible layers: at the bottom, a layer of small, light brown grains; mixed within and on top, bright yellow corn kernels and dark red kidney beans; and scattered pieces of fresh green avocado cubes and red tomato chunks. Bright green leafy herbs are sprinkled throughout, adding freshness and contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 cup couscous
1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 tbsp diced jalapeño (fresh is better, but tinned also okay)
2 scallions (shallots), roughly sliced (optional)
1 can (15 oz / 400 g) black beans (or red kidney beans)
1 can (15 oz / 400 g) corn kernels
Handful of coriander / cilantro
1 tomato, deseeded and diced
1/2 avocado, diced
Sour cream, for serving
Grated cheese, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Place salt, cumin powder, onion powder, and couscous in a bowl and toss quickly to combine.
Step 2: Add the boiling water, cover the bowl, and set aside for 5 minutes to let the couscous absorb the water.
Step 3: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in the tomato paste until the couscous is evenly coated.
Step 4: Add the diced jalapeño, sliced scallions, drained black beans, corn kernels, coriander, diced tomato, and diced avocado. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Serve immediately, topped with sour cream and grated cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh jalapeño for a brighter, spicier flavor; adjust the amount to your heat preference.
Swap black beans for chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and protein source.
Add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for extra freshness.
If you prefer a vegan option, skip the sour cream and cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The couscous may firm up slightly after refrigeration; fluff it again before serving. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold as a salad.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful mix of ingredients. The base layer is small round couscous grains with a light brown color. Scattered on top are chunks of bright green avocado, yellow corn kernels, red kidney beans, and chopped red tomatoes. Fresh green cilantro leaves are sprinkled throughout, adding a touch of leafy texture and color. The bowl is placed on a white cloth with a red stripe, and the background shows a smooth white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of couscous?

You can substitute rice, but cooking times and water ratios will differ. Couscous is quicker to prepare, making this recipe very fast and convenient.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional couscous is made from wheat and contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, try using quinoa or a gluten-free couscous alternative.

Harry Bern