This is a recipe I did once when I was invited to a dinner party, and nearly forgot that the host wanted me to bring a sidedish. Needing to whip up something fast, I remembered from my days of working in our prepared foods department, how quick and easy couscous recipes were. I already had couscous in my cabinet, vegetables in the freezer, vegetalbe broth, and all of the spices that I needed on hand as well. The whole recipe took maybe about 20 minutes tops.

Serves 6

• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 2 teaspoons dried onion flakes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons agave nectar (optional)
• 2 cups couscous
• 1 packet frozen mixed vegetables (small package)

1. In a small to medium saucepan, saute mixed vegetables in the butter until vegetables are well cooked then set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine broth, dried onion flakes, basil, black pepper, and garlic powder and bring to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in couscous and agave with vegetables to liquid. Cover, and let stand for about 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.