This warm Israeli couscous salad is packed with color and flavor. Smarts: Roast a double batch of butternut squash tonight and Thursday's pita pizzas will come together in a flash.
Squash / Shallots - Prep as directed (prep squash for Thursday night at the same time). Store separately. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Roast squash - Double if making Thursday nights’ meal. Heat oven to 425F / 218C degrees. Toss butternut squash with brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and some salt and pepper. Spread butternut squash out onto a sheet pan. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through cooking, until golden and caramelized. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Cook Israeli couscous - Cook Israeli couscous according to package directions. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Parsley - Chop parsley. (Can be done up to 3 days ahead)
Beans - Drain and rinse.
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If squash was made ahead, reheat in the microwave. (Reserve half doubled for Thursday.)
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add butter. When butter melts, stir in mustard, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Add beans, shallots, and spinach and saute until spinach is wilted.
Stir in couscous and continue heating until warmed through.
Remove from heat and add squash, parsley, cranberries, and pistachios.
Crumble goat cheese (if using) over couscous just before serving. Enjoy!