$0.80 per serving ~ Chickpea-Tomato Ragout over Couscous

I needed something super-fast and a big change from our recent dinners. This was inspired by a recipe in the newspaper, with a few of my own changes.

Chickpea-Tomato Ragout over Couscous ~ $0.80 per serving, $4.80 total cost
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 medium red onion, diced ($0.30)
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp ground cumin
2 15 oz. cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed ($1.50)
1 14 oz. can petite diced tomatoes, drained ($0.50)
1 tsp. dried thyme
2 tbsp. honey
2. tbsp. lemon juice
1 3/4 cups broth of your choice ($1.00)
Salt and pepper
1 cup couscous ($0.50)
Water according to couscous directions

1. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Saute onion and garlic until fragrant. Sprinkle with cumin and stir to mellow.
2. Stir in chickpeas, tomatos, thyme, honey, lemon juice, and broth (I used vegetable). Bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer 5 minutes.
3. While chickpeas are cooking, prepare couscous according to package directions.
4. Taste chickpeas and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve over couscous in shallow bowls.

The Verdict
This is my favorite new recipe in a LONG time! Delicious and fresh-tasting, filling but not heavy, super fast and easy, and everyone enjoyed it. This was a great choice for a stressful day when I wanted something different and "spring-y". It was like being at a Morroccan restaurant! I think I'll make some mint tea tonight and complete the experience.