Dried pasta has been part of the healthy Mediterranean Diet for many millennia and comes in hundreds of shapes and sizes. While most pasta forms are universal, some have special connections to regional cultures and cuisines. Hailing from Northern Greece, “Couscous” are spherical-shaped pasta, classified as “pastina” in Italian because they are so small. Not to be confused with North African and Middlle Eastern couscous, Greek Couscous are traditionally used in soups, stews, side dishes and cold salads. If you love making chicken soup, tomato soup or Italian wedding soup, you will find Melissa Couscous a wonderful ingredient for these recipes! Couscous are the perfect size for kids and are delicious with tomato sauce and grated cheese. For a delectable vegetarian side dish, combine our cooked petite pasta with sautéed garlic, finely chopped basil, spinach and mushrooms and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Work your magic with Melissa Couscous as you would any other pasta: boiled in salted water and served al dente. To amplify the flavor of our pastina, toast the pasta for a few minutes in olive oil or butter before adding your cooking liquid. Any recipe calling for orzo, rice, Israeli couscous or bulgur – including pilafs – will be delicious with our Couscous!